Cleaning Services Manager in Colchester

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Cleaning Services Manager to join our team at Merville Barracks, Colchester, CO2 7UT. This is a key operational leadership role, managing a large and diverse cleaning operation across a busy military estate. Reporting to the Soft Services Operations Manager, you will provide day-to-day leadership, technical expertise and strategic support to a team of over 70 cleaning operatives, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, compliant and customer-focused cleaning services across a wide range of facilities. You will play a critical role in maintaining Sodexo's reputation for excellence, supporting innovation, driving employee engagement, and ensuring all contractual, legislative and MOD requirements are met.

What you'll do:

• Provide leadership, supervision, direction and technical support to the cleaning team, stepping up to cover the Soft Operations Manager role during periods of absence when required.
• Deliver effective and efficient cleaning services in line with the Services Standard Statement (SSS), KPIs, company policies, client requirements and MOD regulations.
• Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness across a diverse estate including medical facilities, accommodation, offices, leisure areas, workshops, warehouses, vehicles, messes and educational buildings.
• Support and implement innovative service solutions to continuously improve quality and value.
• Manage daily operational administration including time management via KRONOS, ensuring accuracy of Timecard Checks and payroll-related outputs.
• Produce and maintain Essence building schedules and ensure service delivery aligns with contracted and supplementary service requests.
• Conduct and manage internal and external audits, inspections and self-audits, ensuring full compliance at all times.
• Lead employee engagement through regular team huddles, manager briefs, training sessions and performance reviews.
• Oversee employee personal files, return-to-work processes, training records and professional development.
• Manage COSHH compliance, acting as the subject matter expert for cleaning chemicals and consumables, including monthly ordering.
• Ensure safe and compliant use of company vehicles in liaison with the Transport Manager.
• Support welfare, capability, grievance and conduct matters in line with HR policies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, barrack managers and nominated customer representatives.
• Promote Sodexo's brand standards, ensuring professional appearance, uniform compliance and positive behaviours across the team.
• Ensure strict adherence to Health & Safety, Fire, Environmental and QA policies, including PPE usage, accident reporting and safety walks.
• Maintain effective communication with senior managers, peers, clients and stakeholders.
• Be flexible to support other areas within the Colchester PFI where business needs require.

This role operates in a dynamic environment and requires a proactive, hands-on leader with strong organisational and people management skills.

What you bring:

• Minimum 2 years’ management experience, with qualification equivalent to NVQ Level 3 (or willingness to work towards a recognised FM qualification).
• Management experience within Facilities Management and/or cleaning services.
• Strong knowledge of Health, Safety and Welfare, including COSHH.
• Proven people management skills including recruitment, training, performance management, disciplinary and grievance processes.
• Experience delivering FM services in a customer-focused environment.
• Confident decision-maker, able to work independently and as part of a wider team.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to service standards.
• Analytical problem-solving skills with the ability to implement innovative solutions.
• Competent user of MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent Health & Safety qualification.
• Soft FM technical expertise, including contract administration and transport services.
• Experience managing client relationships in a contract environment.
• Proven track record of leading and developing large teams.
• Experience in a multi-functional role.
• Clean UK Driving Licence.
• SC Clearance (or willingness to undergo clearance following probation).
• Demonstrated ability to drive service improvement and innovation.

What we offer:

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:

• Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
• 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
• Discounts for you & family
• Financial tools & retirement plan