At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic multi-site catering operation and drive excellence in food quality and service.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking catering company committed to exceptional experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values individuality and promotes growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping standards and developing high-performing teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing multi-site catering operations and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
General Catering Manager (Multi-Site)
Location
Luton
Contract
40 hours, 7 day operation
We're looking for an experienced and ambitious General Catering Manager to lead a newly mobilising multi-site catering contract in Luton.
This is an exciting opportunity for a proven catering professional who thrives in fast-paced environments, enjoys building high-performing teams, and is passionate about delivering exceptional food and service experiences.
As the senior catering leader across multiple outlets, you'll play a key role in establishing operational excellence from day one.
You'll work closely with both client stakeholders and site teams, embedding best practice, developing capability, and creating a culture built on service, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
This role will suit someone who enjoys being highly visible within an operation, is comfortable leading through change, and has a genuine talent for coaching, mentoring and developing others.
- What You'll Be Doing
- Leading the change management and ongoing management of a multi-site catering operation.
- Driving excellence in food quality, customer experience, health & safety, and financial performance.
- Building strong relationships with client stakeholders and becoming a trusted operational partner.
- Coaching, developing and supporting managers and frontline teams to achieve their full potential.
- Implementing consistent standards, processes, training programmes, and ways of working across all locations.
- Monitoring performance and identifying opportunities to improve service delivery, engagement, and operational efficiency.
- Managing budgets, labour costs, purchasing, and commercial performance across the contract.
- Creating a positive, customer-focused culture where colleagues feel supported, engaged, and motivated to succeed.
What We're Looking For
- Significant experience managing catering operations across multiple sites.
- Proven change management experience.
- A strong catering background with excellent foodservice knowledge and operational expertise.
- Demonstrable experience leading large and diverse teams.
- Strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience improving operational performance through coaching, training, and team development.
- Commercially astute with a solid understanding of budgets, KPIs, and financial controls.
- The ability to remain calm, resilient, and solutions-focused in a dynamic environment.
- Exceptional communication and leadership skills with a hands-on approach.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact on a developing contract and leave your mark from the very beginning.
You'll have the autonomy to shape standards, develop teams, strengthen client relationships, and build an operation known for outstanding food, service, and performance.
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!
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General Manager (Multi-Site) - Luton employer: Chartwells Independent
Compass Group UK&I is an exceptional employer located in Winchester, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises individuality and personal development. As a part-time Cafe Supervisor, you'll enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and the chance to advance your career within a leading hospitality organisation that values great customer service and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager (Multi-Site) - Luton
✨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 General Manager (Multi-Site) - Luton
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!
