At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate food operations in a dynamic healthcare environment.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK & Ireland, an inclusive employer committed to diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a meaningful work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a flagship contract with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patient experiences and shape the future of food services.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in operational management with food service leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
This job is with Compass Group UK & Ireland, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Food Services to lead and elevate food operations within our soft FM contract at Addenbrooke's Hospital. This is a high-impact leadership role where you will drive excellence in service delivery, innovation, compliance, and customer experience across a large-scale healthcare environment. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping strategy, delivering commercial performance, and creating a high-performing, engaged team culture.
Our Addenbrooke's Hospital contract is a flagship healthcare operation, delivering a wide range of services including cleaning, portering, patient feeding, and retail. Serving a major teaching hospital with a large and diverse patient population, this is a complex, fast-paced and rewarding environment where high standards and innovation are essential.
Key Responsibilities- Operational Leadership
- Develop and deliver the food service strategy in line with business and client objectives
- Drive innovation across food delivery, sustainability, and customer experience
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives across all food services
- Operational Excellence
- Oversee day-to-day food operations, ensuring high standards in quality, hygiene, and safety
- Monitor KPIs and SLAs, driving performance and minimising deductions
- Ensure compliance with HACCP, Food Safety Act, and all relevant legislation
- Maintain brand standards and contractual obligations
- Leadership & People
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of managers to create a high-performance culture
- Drive engagement, wellbeing, and inclusion across the workforce
- Ensure effective performance management and succession planning
- Promote a customer-first mindset across patient, visitor, and retail services
- Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the senior point of contact for all food services
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with the client
- Deliver an exceptional customer experience aligned to client values
- Lead service improvement initiatives to enhance satisfaction and retention
- Financial & Commercial
- Manage budgets, forecasts, and cost controls to ensure profitability
- Identify growth opportunities and operational efficiencies
- Understand and manage contract risks and commercial obligations
- Health & Safety
- Champion a zero-harm culture and safe systems of work
- Ensure all teams are trained, equipped, and supported to work safely
- Sustainability & Innovation
- Lead sustainable practices including waste reduction and responsible sourcing
- Stay ahead of industry trends and introduce innovative solutions
We're looking for a confident and inspiring leader who thrives in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Key Experience & Skills- Minimum 3+ years in operational management, including 1+ year in food service leadership
- Proven experience managing large, diverse teams and developing managers
- Strong commercial and financial acumen with P&L responsibility
- Deep understanding of food safety, compliance, and service standards
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Passion for food, innovation, and delivering exceptional customer experiences
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and deliver results
- Curious - Innovative, solution-focused, and forward-thinking
- Confident - Sets clear standards, develops others, and delivers results
- Courageous - Leads with integrity, challenges constructively, and drives positive change
- Be part of a flagship healthcare contract with real impact
- Lead a large and diverse team in a meaningful environment
- Shape the future of food services in a major NHS hospital
- Opportunities for career growth and development
Head Of Food Operations in Norfolk employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Compass Group UK & Ireland is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge. As the Head of Food Operations, you will lead a diverse team in a flagship healthcare setting, driving innovation and excellence while enjoying opportunities for career growth and development. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing and a customer-first mindset, Compass Group fosters a culture where your contributions truly make a difference in the lives of patients and staff alike.
Contact Details:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Food Operations in Norfolk
✨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 UK & Ireland. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group UK & Ireland
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group UK & Ireland 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 Food Operations in Norfolk
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 UK & Ireland 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 UK & Ireland
✨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!
