At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering operation in one of the UK's largest prisons.
- Company: Join Aramark UK, a leader in public service management.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to empowering all employees.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing exceptional teams and influencing positive outcomes.
- Qualifications: Experience in large-scale service delivery and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Lead a Critical Service Within One of the UK's Largest Prisons
Lead with Purpose. Deliver Excellence. Make a Difference.
Are you an experienced operational leader with a background in contract catering, facilities management or large-scale service delivery?
Aramark UK is seeking an exceptional General Manager to lead our catering operation at HMP Birmingham, one of the UK's largest Category B prisons.
This is a highly visible leadership role with overall responsibility for the safe, compliant, and effective delivery of prisoner feeding, staff catering, retail and visitor catering services across a complex custodial environment.
Reporting to the Regional Manager, you will act as the senior Aramark representative on site, leading a team of approximately 16 colleagues and working in close partnership with HMPPS, Ministry of Justice stakeholders and prison leadership teams.
This is a unique opportunity for a commercially minded leader who is passionate about operational excellence, people development, client engagement and creating meaningful social impact through rehabilitation and vocational training opportunities.
What's in it for you?
- Competitive salary of £45,000 - £50,000 DOE
- Generous annual leave allowance increasing with service
- Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave
- Company pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Blue Light Card membership
• Employee Benefits Platform including
- Health cash plans
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Online GP service
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Financial wellbeing support
- Career development opportunities within Aramark UK's Justice & Immigration sector
The Opportunity
As General Manager, you will have full accountability for the day-to-day and strategic management of the HMP Birmingham catering contract.
You will lead a high-performing team responsible for delivering services to a large prisoner population alongside staff, contractors, and visitors within a challenging and rewarding operational environment.
You will be responsible for
- Overall contract performance and service delivery.
- Financial management, budget control, and P&L accountability.
- Food safety, health & safety, and statutory compliance.
- Client relationship management and stakeholder engagement.
- People management, succession planning, and team development.
- Delivery of contractual KPIs and service standards.
- Continuous improvement initiatives and operational efficiencies.
- Supporting rehabilitation through prisoner training and employment opportunities within the catering operation.
- What you will be doing
- Leading the overall catering operation across HMP Birmingham.
- Ensuring all prisoner feeding, staff catering and retail services operate safely, efficiently and in accordance with contractual requirements.
- Working closely with the Kitchen Manager and Head Chef to manage production planning, stock control, waste reduction, and menu compliance.
- Driving service improvements and innovation across all catering operations. Maintaining operational resilience and contingency planning within a live custodial environment.
- Client & Stakeholder Management
- Acting as the primary point of contact for HMP Birmingham and Ministry of Justice stakeholders.
- Building strong partnerships with prison management teams and key decision-makers.
- Leading quarterly business reviews and client engagement meetings.
- Managing customer expectations whilst ensuring contractual compliance and service excellence.
- Managing site budgets and financial performance.
- Monitoring labour costs, food costs, and operational expenditure.
- Producing forecasts, financial reports, and business plans.
- Identifying opportunities to improve efficiencies whilst maintaining service quality.
- Leading, coaching and developing a team of managers, supervisors, and catering colleagues.
- Creating a positive, inclusive, and high-performance culture.
- Managing recruitment, succession planning, and employee development.
- Supporting investigations, grievance processes and performance management when required.
- Ensuring all colleagues receive appropriate training and development opportunities.
- Compliance & Governance
Ensuring full compliance with
- HACCP and Food Safety legislation
- Health & Safety legislation
- HMPPS and Ministry of Justice requirements
- Aramark policies and procedures
- Contract specifications and service level agreements
- Leading audits and compliance reviews.
- Maintaining exceptional standards of governance and record keeping.
What we are looking for
We are looking for an experienced operational leader who can confidently manage a large, complex contract and build trusted relationships at all levels.
- Significant experience managing large catering, hospitality, facilities management, or service contracts.
- Strong financial and commercial acumen with budget management experience.
- Proven leadership experience managing multi-disciplinary teams.
- Experience working within a highly regulated environment.
- Excellent stakeholder management and client relationship skills.
- Strong organisational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to analyse performance data and translate insights into action.
- Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable working within a fast-paced operational environment.
- Experience working within custodial, justice, healthcare, education, defence, or other public sector environments.
- Level 4 Food Safety qualification.
- City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2, NVQ Level 2 Professional Cookery or equivalent catering qualification.
- Knowledge of contract catering and public sector procurement environments.
- Additional Requirements
- Be eligible to work in the UK.
- Successfully complete enhanced prison security clearance and Ministry of Justice vetting.
- Comply with all information security, safeguarding, and operational security requirements.
- Always maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity.
- Join Aramark UK
At Aramark UK, we believe that everyone deserves a workplace where they feel valued, respected and empowered to achieve their full potential.
- As a
- Disability Confident and
Forces Friendly employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
This is more than just a management role—it's an opportunity to lead a critical public service, influence positive outcomes, develop exceptional teams, and make a genuine difference every day.
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General Manager in Birmingham employer: Aramark UK
Aramark UK is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and teamwork in the heart of Greater London. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth, employees are encouraged to develop their culinary skills while working alongside passionate professionals in a dynamic environment. Join us to be part of a company that prioritises excellence and innovation in the culinary arts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager in Birmingham
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Aramark UK. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Aramark UK
Don't be shy about reaching out to Aramark UK directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Aramark UK and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aramark UK
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
