At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering and cleaning operations, ensuring exceptional service delivery.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to Β£40,000, with opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing service quality and customer experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing catering and cleaning services with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on team development and operational excellence.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 40000 Β£ per year.
Location: Stowmarket
Salary: Up to Β£40,000 per annum, depending on experience
Are you an experienced soft services leader with a passion for delivering exceptional customer experience? Weβre looking for a proactive and engaging General Services Manager to oversee the day-to-day delivery of catering that is 24/7 and cleaning operation over 7 days a week at our Stowmarket site. This is a hands-on leadership role with full responsibility for operational performance, client relationships, financial results, and team development across both service streams. You will play a pivotal role in shaping service quality, elevating standards, and creating a welcoming environment for colleagues and visitors.
About the role
As General Services Manager, you will be the primary point of contact for both the client and our onsite teams, ensuring that all services are delivered seamlessly, safely, and professionally. You will lead service enhancement initiatives, drive customer service excellence, and ensure operational delivery is consistently outstanding across all functions.
Key Responsibilities
- Overall leadership and accountability for catering and cleaning operations on site
- Act as the point of contact for the client, building strong, trusted relationships
- Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality food service and cleaning standards
- Full P&L responsibility, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
- Lead, motivate, and develop multi-disciplinary management and frontline teams
- Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety, Food Safety, and employment legislation
- Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and service development
- Manage staffing levels, recruitment, training, and succession planning
- Deliver agreed KPIs, SLAs, and contractual obligations
About You
- Proven experience as a General Services Manager with experience in Catering and Cleaning
- Strong commercial acumen with demonstrable P&L responsibility
- Confident client-facing leader with excellent communication skills
- Experience managing large, diverse teams in a fast-paced environment
- Passionate about food, service excellence, and people development
- Highly organised, resilient, and able to manage multiple priorities
- IOSH / NEBOSH, Food Safety qualifications (desirable but not essential)
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!
General Services Manager - Stowmarket employer: 14forty
Contact Detail:
14forty Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land General Services Manager - Stowmarket
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you showcase why you're the perfect fit for the General Services Manager role at Stowmarket.
β¨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience in catering and cleaning operations clearly and confidently. Highlight your leadership skills and how you've driven service excellence in past roles.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows youβre genuinely interested in joining our team at 14forty.
We think you need these skills to ace General Services Manager - Stowmarket
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the General Services Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience in catering and cleaning, and donβt forget to mention any P&L responsibilities you've had!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for customer service and how you can elevate standards at our Stowmarket site. Be engaging and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and improve service quality. Numbers speak volumes, so include any KPIs or SLAs youβve successfully met or exceeded.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, youβll find all the info you need about us and the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at 14forty
β¨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of a General Services Manager. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities like P&L management, client relationships, and team development. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with what theyβre looking for.
β¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading diverse teams, be ready to share specific examples of how you've motivated and developed your teams in the past. Highlight any initiatives you've led that improved service quality or operational performance, as this will demonstrate your hands-on leadership style.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as managing a crisis in catering or dealing with a difficult client. Think through potential scenarios and prepare structured responses that showcase your problem-solving skills and customer service excellence.
β¨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, donβt forget to ask questions that show your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about their current challenges in service delivery or how they measure success in this position. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.