At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering operations across five campuses, ensuring top-notch service and student satisfaction.
- Company: Join Aramark UK, a leader in dynamic catering solutions.
- Benefits: Earn up to £38,000, enjoy generous leave, and access exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Permanent role with excellent career growth and a commitment to safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student experiences while driving innovation in food services.
- Qualifications: Experience in contract catering and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 38000 £ per year.
Aramark UK is recruiting a Group Contract Manager to lead a dynamic, multi-site catering operation across South Wales. We’re looking for an energetic and commercially astute leader to take ownership of service delivery across five vibrant college campuses at Coleg Gwent. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about food, people, and creating an outstanding student experience every day.
As Group Contract Manager, you’ll inspire high-performing teams, drive innovation, and deliver exceptional standards in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. Working closely with senior stakeholders and clients, you’ll play a key role in shaping a fresh, modern and inclusive catering offer while ensuring strong financial performance.
This is a permanent full-time role on site working Monday to Friday term time only (44 working weeks). We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all employees and workers to share this commitment. All roles are subject to safer recruitment checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).
What's in it for you:
- Competitive salary of up to £38,000 depending on experience
- Generous annual leave that increases in line with service, with the opportunity to buy extra
- Life assurance and pension scheme
- Benefits app: access to 100s of discounts, free mortgage advice, cycle to work scheme, health cash plans, online GP appointments, and our Employee Assistance Programme
- Opportunities to attend in-house events and try the culinary genius of our teams
Job Responsibilities:
- Lead and oversee catering operations across five campuses, ensuring consistent, high-quality service delivery and student experience
- Build, motivate and develop high‑performing teams, including Catering Managers, Chefs and Assistants, through strong leadership and engagement
- Maintain a robust Health & Safety culture, ensuring full compliance, training, risk management and incident investigation
- Drive commercial performance by managing P&L, controlling costs, analysing sales data and delivering budgeted financial results
- Ensure food quality, hygiene and service standards consistently meet 5* EHO and client expectations
- Develop and implement innovative food concepts, profitable product lines and technology-driven improvements to grow revenue
- Build and maintain strong client relationships, leading regular operational and financial review meetings
- Champion continuous improvement, customer feedback and operational excellence across all sites
Key Requirements:
- Proven experience in contract catering, ideally within the education sector and high-volume environments
- Strong leadership capability with a track record of managing and developing large, multi-site teams
- Solid commercial acumen, including P&L management and experience driving profitability in low-margin operations
- In-depth knowledge of food service operations, including dining, coffee shop efficiency, and food quality standards
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with confidence presenting to clients and senior leaders
- Resilience, adaptability and strong problem-solving ability, with a proactive approach to change and continuous improvement
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Group Contract Manager employer: Aramark
Aramark UK is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises innovation and teamwork across its multi-site catering operations in South Wales. With a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a range of employee benefits including access to discounts and health plans, we are dedicated to fostering professional growth and creating a rewarding environment for our staff. Join us in shaping an outstanding student experience while enjoying the unique opportunity to engage with culinary excellence and contribute to a meaningful mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Contract Manager
✨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. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Aramark
Don't be shy about reaching out to Aramark 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 Group Contract Manager
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 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
✨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!
