At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-profile multi-site contract, driving performance and growth.
- Company: Join ESS, part of Compass Group, delivering vital services across Defence and Energy sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, gym membership, career development, and discounts on travel and dining.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive workplace that values diversity and empowers everyone.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while leading high-performing teams.
- Qualifications: Proven operational leader with strong commercial acumen and experience managing large contracts.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced, commercially driven operations leader to take full accountability for a high‑profile, multi‑site contract within our SFM portfolio. This senior role carries responsibility for circa £5.3m annual revenue, with 10 direct reports and overall people accountability for approximately 110 colleagues. You will lead performance, financial delivery, safety, and growth across the contract, building strong client relationships and developing high‑performing teams. With full ownership of operational outcomes, you’ll play a key role in driving continuous improvement, supporting business growth, and shaping the future of our SFM services.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver all contractual, operational, and HSE requirements in line with client and business standards
- Own full P&L responsibility, achieving or exceeding financial targets
- Identify and deliver growth opportunities to increase contract value and retention
- Lead and develop high‑performing teams, with a strong focus on capability and engagement
- Optimise labour, resources, and licences to meet contractual demand efficiently
- Build and maintain strong client relationships through clear communication and delivery
- Monitor KPIs, driving continuous improvement across performance and service
- Ensure subcontractor, client, and company policy compliance
- Support new contract mobilisations and the ongoing development of the SFM proposition
Person Specification
Essential
- Proven senior operational leader with strong commercial and financial acumen
- Experience managing large, complex contracts or regions (£3m+ value)
- Customer‑focused, results‑driven, and comfortable operating in cost‑sensitive environments
- Strong communicator with experience leading change through teams
- Flexible, resilient, and aligned to business values and objectives
- Full UK driving licence
Desirable
- Facilities Management experience, including soft services and/or waste
- Catering or hospitality management experience
- FM qualification (IWFM) or working towards it
What We Offer
- Free meals and onsite parking
- Contributory pension scheme and subsidised gym membership
- Career development through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Digital GP access and healthcare benefits for you and your immediate family
- Discounts across travel, retail, groceries, dining, and cinema tickets
- Cashback rewards and wellbeing, mindfulness, and fitness programmes
- All discounts and offers are shareable with friends and family
About Us
ESS is part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, delivering critical support services across Defence, Government, and Energy sectors. We operate across 250+ UK sites, including military bases, secure environments, and onshore and offshore energy facilities. Our people are at the heart of what we do, and we are proud to deliver outstanding service in complex and high‑profile environments. Compass Group UK & Ireland is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. We celebrate diversity and believe our differences make us stronger.
Contact Details:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruitment Team
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