Operations Manager - Contract Catering

Operations Manager – Education Catering (Surrey)

Salary: £45,000 – £50,000 DOE + Car Allowance + Bonus
Full-time | 40 hours per week | 52 weeks per year

Ready to take your career to the next level in a role where you can make a real impact on the future generation's food experience?

Our client, a market-leading contract catering company with a passion for transforming school food, is on the hunt for a dynamic Operations Manager to join their growing team. Known for their creativity, innovation, and commitment to excellence in education catering, this is a business that's redefining what school meals can be.

As an Operations Manager, you'll be responsible for overseeing a portfolio of Primary and Secondary school contracts across the Surrey. Your mission? To ensure that every meal served is not only delicious and on-trend but also delivered with the highest standards of care and service.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading, inspiring and developing a team of site managers to deliver outstanding food and service

• Driving contract performance and ensuring services exceed client and customer expectations

• Monitoring and managing budgets while ensuring operational efficiency and quality aren't compromised

• Keeping food quality aligned with current food trends and children's preferences

• Playing a key role in client relationship management, retention, and new business development

• Ensuring full compliance with all Health & Safety, food hygiene, and safeguarding procedures

What We're Looking For

You're already an experienced operator in the education catering sector, with a strong track record of managing multiple sites. You bring:

• A passion for great food and service

• Strong leadership skills with a focus on team development and motivation

• Commercial awareness and the ability to drive performance and profitability

• Excellent communication and client management skills

• A process-driven mindset with the ability to maintain high standards across all operations

Why You'll Love This Role

This isn't just another job – it's a chance to join a company where people come first and progression is part of the package. Here's what you can expect:

• Competitive salary, car allowance, and bonus scheme

• A fresh new benefits programme, including private healthcare, enhanced parental leave, and even your birthday off

• Industry-leading learning and development opportunities

• The chance to shape the future of school meals – and the future of a growing business

Please note: All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, in line with the company's commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

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