At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise non-food services in healthcare for better patient care.
- Company: Join a leading healthcare provider committed to innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with the chance to drive transformation and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare services while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in operational leadership within healthcare or large-scale facilities.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Salary: Competitive from £65,000 + excellent benefits
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Be the driving force behind safer, smarter, more sustainable healthcare services. Are you a passionate operational leader ready to make a measurable impact in healthcare support services? We’re looking for a Head of Non-Food Operations to lead and optimise essential service delivery across Portering, Domestic Services, and Logistics. This is a senior leadership role with real influence — responsible for ensuring that non-food services are delivered efficiently, safely, and compassionately to support world-class patient care. You’ll shape strategy, drive innovation, and inspire a high-performing team in one of the UK’s most complex and rewarding operational environments. This is an on-site role.
What You’ll Do
- Lead and innovate – Design and deliver a high-performing Non-Food Service Delivery Model across multiple operational teams.
- Champion quality and compliance – Ensure services meet all NHS, HSE, and contractual standards while maintaining exceptional infection control and patient safety.
- Inspire and empower teams – Build, motivate, and develop multi-disciplinary teams to deliver service excellence and operational resilience.
- Drive performance and efficiency – Use data, KPIs, and insight to deliver smarter operations and measurable improvements in service delivery.
- Collaborate at every level – Partner with clinical and operational leaders to align non-food services with wider healthcare objectives.
- Lead transformation – Support mobilisation, process redesign, and digital innovation projects across the estate.
- Deliver commercial results – Manage budgets effectively, identify efficiencies, and ensure services operate sustainably and profitably.
What We’re Looking For
You’re a proven operational leader with a track record of success in large-scale facilities or healthcare environments. You know how to balance strategic vision with hands-on leadership and thrive in fast-paced, complex settings.
Essential experience and skills:
- 5+ years’ experience leading multi-disciplinary teams (e.g. cleaning, portering, logistics, or facilities).
- Strong knowledge of NHS or healthcare standards.
- Excellent people leadership and coaching skills.
- Commercially astute, with the ability to deliver high-quality services within budget.
- Confident in change management, transformation projects, and stakeholder engagement.
- Passionate about service excellence, sustainability, and patient experience.
- In‐depth knowledge of NHS Cleaning Standards.
- Strong Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) technical expertise.
- Expertise in specialist healthcare cleaning methods & technical equipment.
Head of Operations - Non Food employer: Compass Group PLC
Compass Group PLC is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds where you can lead a passionate team and make a real impact on customer experiences. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits including a pension scheme, and a culture that values high service standards, this role provides a unique opportunity to grow your career in the food service industry while driving profitability and creating memorable moments for guests.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations - Non Food
✨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 Compass Group PLC. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group PLC
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group PLC 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 - Non Food
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 Compass Group PLC 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 Compass Group PLC
✨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!
