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- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to deliver top-notch catering services in schools.
- Company: Join Chartwells, a leading provider of catering in the education sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like discounts on travel, groceries, cinema tickets, and wellness classes.
- Why this job: Grow your career with a company that values individuality and rewards hard work.
- Qualifications: Senior management experience in contract catering and excellent communication skills required.
- Other info: Work Monday to Friday, 40 hours a week, with a focus on making a positive impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
We're currently recruiting a dedicated Area Catering Manager to help ensure the smooth running of the operations in Chartwells on a full time basis, contracted to 40 hours per week. As an Area Catering Manager, you will use your skills to maintain a high standard of quality work. In return, you will have the chance to progress your career with a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.
Here's an idea of what your shift pattern will be: Mon to Fri - Days Only. Please note: This role is contracted to 45 weeks per year.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Plan and implement the strategy of growth & retention for new and existing business through leading the development of long-term account plans and a rolling lifecycle review process.
- Support the sales team to develop financially sound bids and proposals and sign off final agreements to ensure we deliver operationally sound contracts.
- Deliver the profit for the region through leadership and support for teams within the various Schools.
- Review school contract performance, identify improvements, and ensure contract compliance to exceed client expectations.
- Identify the different customer requirements through analysing trends in their feedback and select the appropriate company offering to deliver customer satisfaction.
- Communicate strategy to team and ensure that improvements are implemented to maximise performance and customer satisfaction.
- Develop and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including strategic client relationships.
Our ideal Area Manager will:
- Have senior management experience leading and inspiring operational teams to deliver results.
- Be from a contract catering background.
- Have led the implementation of change programmes to deliver operational benefits.
- Have experience of working within brand guidelines to deliver results.
- Have experience in highly commercial and price-sensitive markets.
- Possess excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Have managed senior-level third party relationships.
About Us: Part of Compass Group UK&I, Chartwells is the leading provider of catering and support services to the education sector. For over a quarter of a century, Chartwells has been focusing on helping those in education to build strong bodies, sharp minds and lead long healthy lives. Every week, Chartwells serves millions of nutritious and delicious meals to pupils and students in primary and secondary schools, academies, independent schools, colleges, and universities across the UK. Chartwells is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all employees to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to successfully completing pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure and a Children's Barred List check. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and we ask applicants to declare all previous convictions and cautions in order to assess their suitability to work with children.
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
Area Catering Manager - Reading employer: Chartwells
Contact Detail:
Chartwells Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Catering Manager - Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Chartwells' mission and values. Understanding their commitment to quality in education catering will help you align your experience and ideas with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Chartwells. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the Area Catering Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage contracts effectively. Highlighting your successes in similar roles will showcase your capability to excel in this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on trends in the catering and education sectors. Being knowledgeable about current challenges and innovations will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations and show your proactive approach to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Catering Manager - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in contract catering and senior management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and deliver results, as these are key aspects of the Area Catering Manager role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the education sector and how your background aligns with Chartwells' mission. Mention your experience in implementing change programmes and managing client relationships, as these are crucial for the position.
Highlight Key Achievements: When detailing your work history, focus on quantifiable achievements that showcase your leadership skills and operational success. For example, mention any improvements in customer satisfaction or financial performance you have driven in previous roles.
Prepare for Background Checks: Since this role involves working with children, be ready to provide information for pre-employment checks, including any previous convictions. Being transparent about your history will help build trust with the employer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartwells
✨Research Chartwells
Before your interview, take some time to learn about Chartwells and its mission in the education sector. Understanding their values and services will help you align your answers with what they are looking for in an Area Catering Manager.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a candidate for a senior management position, be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams. Share specific examples of how you've inspired and motivated your team to achieve results, especially in a contract catering environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges. Think of situations where you've had to implement change or improve performance, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to demonstrate how you've successfully managed relationships with stakeholders and clients. Use examples that showcase your ability to convey strategies clearly and ensure team alignment.
