At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage catering operations across schools, ensuring quality and client satisfaction.
- Company: Caterlink, a leading education sector catering specialist with over 20 years of experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, generous holiday, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values growth, respect, and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and operational management is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Company Description
Caterlink is the education sector catering specialist. For over 20 years, the Company has delivered fresh food solutions to pupils and staff at Primary Schools, Secondary Schools and Colleges across the UK. The company caters more than 1,000,000 meals a week. Our “Fresh Food Policy” is the foundation of our success and growth in the market coupled with a desire to truly deliver on the promises we make to our clients and support our site-based teams.
Job Description
We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to manage a group of schools, which will be a mix of primary schools, secondary schools and colleges. Previous catering and operational management experience is essential. This is a 52‑week role working Monday – Friday. At Caterlink, we strongly believe that people work for people, so we want you to bring confidence and credibility, lead and motivate your teams, and create strong client relationships across your portfolio of schools. Being commercially astute is also essential for this role and in addition to this you will need to be prepared to roll your sleeves up and help the teams when you need to. We believe that living by our KPIs – Health & Safety, Retention, Quality and Finance – is key to success. We also value People, Perception, Passion and Pride, which can enhance your growth, success, and development. Successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS disclosure. Salary dependent on experience.
Caterlink strives to always provide a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all our teams where every individual is treated with respect, integrity and has the opportunity to grow and be treated equally and with fairness at all times.
Benefits
- Competitive salary plus a performance‑related bonus
- Monthly car allowance or company car
- 33 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays
- You will be eligible to join our Workplace Pension Scheme with Aviva
- Private health care with BUPA
- Fully expensed company laptop + mobile phone
- Virtual GP for you and your family (eligibility rules apply)
- Employee Discount Platform – savings at supermarkets, cinema, restaurants, holiday discounts, family days out and many more!
- Employee Assistance Program and Virtual GP benefits are free of charge for you and your family
- Opportunity to a blended learning programme that can include formal qualifications including Apprenticeships, classroom training, eLearning and on‑the‑job training to support and encourage your development and enable you to be the best you can be.
- We invest in development opportunities and are always looking to recruit, train and retain the best people for our own future talent and your own future development.
- As our core business is mainly in term time, the school breaks give the opportunity to catch up and plan for the next term, which isn’t always a luxury in a business operating 52 weeks of the year.
Caterlink - Operations Manager in Milton Keynes employer: Cater Link Limited
Caterlink is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued and encouraged to grow. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including private healthcare and a generous holiday allowance, as well as a commitment to professional development through various training programmes, we empower our employees to thrive in their roles. Our focus on fresh food solutions for schools not only makes a meaningful impact in the education sector but also allows for a balanced work-life schedule, particularly during school breaks, making Caterlink a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Caterlink - Operations Manager in Milton Keynes
✨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 Cater Link Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Cater Link Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Cater Link Limited 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 Caterlink - Operations Manager in Milton Keynes
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 Cater Link Limited 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 Cater Link Limited
✨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!
