At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exceptional food and beverage operations, ensuring top-notch guest experiences.
- Company: Join Levy, part of Compass Group, the world's largest catering company.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days' leave, and more perks.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be a key player in delivering legendary hospitality at iconic venues.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in large-scale hospitality and strong commercial skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
A high-profile leadership role responsible for delivering exceptional food, beverage, and guest experiences that align with the client’s vision, brand, and standards. The Head of Operations will lead and develop high-performing teams across the venue, driving service excellence, innovation, and operational consistency while continually evolving the guest experience. Working closely with the client, General Manager, and wider Levy teams, the role is accountable for operational performance, people development, commercial delivery, and maintaining Levy’s reputation for hospitality excellence. This role requires a passionate hospitality leader with strong commercial awareness, a people-first approach, and a proven track record in managing large-scale food and beverage operations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Strategic & Operational Leadership
- Lead the delivery of exceptional food, beverage, and hospitality operations across the venue.
- Work closely with clients and stakeholders to develop and deliver operational strategies and innovation projects.
- Maintain consistently high standards across service, product quality, brand presentation, and guest experience.
- Drive a strong guest-focused and health & safety culture throughout the venue.
- Monitor industry trends and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
- Client & Commercial Management
- Build strong client relationships and ensure successful delivery of events and functions.
- Take full financial accountability for budgets, forecasting, P&L performance, labour, and operating costs.
- Use performance data and analytics to identify growth opportunities and improve efficiencies.
- Support business growth through strong commercial awareness and collaboration with sales and marketing teams.
- People Leadership
- Recruit, lead, develop, and retain high-performing permanent and casual teams.
- Create a positive, inclusive, and engaged team culture focused on hospitality excellence.
- Oversee training, succession planning, communication, and performance management across departments.
- Work closely with HR to ensure compliance and best practice across all people processes.
- Quality, Compliance & Innovation
- Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety, Food Safety, and company standards.
- Drive menu and product development alongside culinary and marketing teams.
- Implement quality assurance measures and continuously improve operational standards.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
- Senior food & beverage leadership experience within large-scale hospitality or event environments.
- Strong people leadership and team development skills.
- Commercially driven with experience managing budgets and P&L performance.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Passionate about hospitality, food, and guest experience.
- Experience leading operational change and improvement projects.
- Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, including evenings and weekends.
What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary with bonus and full company benefits.
- 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme.
- Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments).
- Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Family benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
- Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts.
- Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products.
- Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways.
- Meals on duty included.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive. Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
Head Of Operations - EICC employer: Chartwells Independent
Nourish, part of Compass Group, is an exceptional employer located in Edinburgh, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises sustainability, wellbeing, and diversity. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive healthcare, generous leave policies, and numerous development opportunities, all while being part of a team that delivers legendary experiences in hospitality at some of the UK's most iconic venues. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a supportive environment, Nourish fosters a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute to meaningful change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Operations - EICC
✨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 Chartwells Independent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Independent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Independent 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 Head Of Operations - EICC
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 Chartwells Independent 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 Chartwells Independent
✨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!
