Account Director – Contract Catering in London

My client, a leading name within the Business & Industry catering and workplace hospitality sector, is looking to appoint an exceptional Account Director to lead a prestigious flagship contract in the City of London. This is a rare opportunity for an experienced Account Director to take ownership of a high-profile, multi-service operation delivering premium hospitality, workplace dining, retail and events within a corporate environment. The successful Account Director will be responsible for driving operational excellence, commercial performance, innovation and client satisfaction across the account.

We are seeking a commercially minded and people-focused Account Director with a proven track record in leading large-scale hospitality operations and developing strong client partnerships within the B&I sector.

The Opportunity

As Account Director, you will act as the senior strategic lead across the contract, building trusted client relationships while ensuring operational delivery consistently exceeds expectations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Client Relationship Management
  • Building strong, credible relationships with key stakeholders and acting as the primary client contact.
  • Ensuring all contractual obligations, KPIs and service level agreements are delivered to the highest standard.
  • Leading regular business reviews, presenting operational performance, commercial updates and strategic recommendations.
  • Identifying opportunities for innovation, investment and continuous improvement across the account.
  • Managing client expectations proactively to maintain outstanding service levels and long‑term partnership success.
• Operational Leadership
  • Leading day‑to‑day operations across hospitality, fine dining, events, cafés, staff dining and retail services.
  • Driving high standards across food quality, presentation, customer service and overall guest experience.
  • Developing annual business plans and operational strategies aligned to both client and company objectives.
  • Ensuring all sites operate in line with company procedures, compliance standards and brand expectations.
  • Supporting engaging marketing and promotional initiatives across the operation.
• Commercial & Financial Management
  • Taking full ownership of the account’s commercial performance and financial delivery.
  • Managing budgets, forecasts and growth plans to maximise profitability and operational efficiency.
  • Monitoring labour, GP, sales performance and overhead controls to ensure strong financial performance.
  • Ensuring accurate reporting, invoicing and financial administration across the contract.
  • Driving organic growth opportunities through upselling, innovation and service development.
• Leadership & Team Development
  • Leading, motivating and developing large multi‑site teams within a fast‑paced hospitality environment.
  • Recruiting, coaching and mentoring managers to build engaged, high‑performing teams.
  • Managing talent development, succession planning and performance management processes.
  • Creating a positive and collaborative culture focused on continuous improvement and employee engagement.
  • Encouraging innovation and empowering teams to contribute ideas and solutions.
• Compliance & Standards
  • Ensuring full compliance across health & safety, food safety, allergen management, COSHH and employment legislation.
  • Driving best practice across operational governance, HR and environmental management procedures.
  • Managing internal and external audits successfully and ensuring all action plans are delivered.
  • Maintaining exceptional standards across all aspects of food, hospitality and workplace experience.
  • Acting as a visible leader and role model across the operation.

About You

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience operating at senior leadership or Account Director level within Business & Industry catering or workplace hospitality.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience managing large-scale P&L accounts.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and relationship‑building skills.
• A strong background in premium hospitality and multi‑site operations.
• Experience leading and developing high‑performing teams within complex environments.
• Excellent knowledge of compliance, food safety and operational standards.
• A proactive, innovative and solutions‑focused leadership style.

What’s On Offer

• Opportunity to lead a flagship corporate hospitality contract within the City.
• Competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Excellent benefits package.
• Career progression with a leading hospitality and workplace services business.
• A dynamic and high‑profile leadership opportunity within a premium client environment.

Kellan Group (including all of our brands, Berkeley Scott and Xpress Recruitment) are committed to promoting equal opportunities to people regardless of age, gender, religion, belief, race, sexuality or disability. We operate as an employment agency and employment business.