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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and manage multi-functional teams at our Defence site.
- Company: Join a leading Defence services provider with a focus on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, healthcare benefits, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your leadership skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in contract catering or similar roles and strong team management skills.
- Other info: Access career growth opportunities and wellness classes to support your well-being.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 60000 £ per year.
General Manager – Barnstaple
£44,914 per annum | Full-Time | Monday to Friday (occasional weekends)
Full UK Driving Licence Required
We’re looking for an experienced General Manager to lead operations at our Defence site in Barnstaple. This is a full-time role (40 hours/week) managing multi-functional teams and ensuring exceptional service delivery across all contracted services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and develop departmental managers and frontline teams
- Manage client and contractual relationships with a focus on compliance and safety
- Drive efficiency, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement
- Oversee financial performance, budgets, and service outputs
- Ensure full HSE compliance and staff training standards
- Build strong client relationships and support business retention and growth
About You:
- Proven experience in contract catering or similar operational roles
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Commercially astute with a track record of delivering results
- Excellent communicator, quality-driven, and process-focused
- IT literate and confident with MS Office tools
If you\’re passionate about operational excellence and ready to make an impact, apply now to join a leading Defence services provider.
We ensure you\’re rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury\’s, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
About Us
Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.
Job Reference: com/0408/95443001/52586431/SU #Defence
General Manager employer: Compass Group UK
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a General Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their operations, especially in Defence services, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved service delivery in past roles. This will showcase your skills and give interviewers confidence in your ability to manage multi-functional teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our brand. So, get that application in and show us what you’ve got!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the General Manager role. Highlight your experience in contract catering and leadership skills, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your achievements and how they relate to the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for operational excellence and how you can make an impact at our Defence site. Keep it concise but engaging, and don’t forget to mention why you want to work with us specifically.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a General Manager, excellent communication is crucial. In your application, demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively by using clear and professional language. This will give us a taste of how you’ll interact with teams and clients.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application directly and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of a General Manager in a Defence setting. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as managing multi-functional teams and ensuring compliance. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a General Manager, strong leadership is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or improved service delivery. Be ready to discuss how you motivate staff and drive efficiency, as this will demonstrate your capability to manage and develop departmental managers effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, listen carefully to questions and respond thoughtfully. This will show that you are not only a good communicator but also someone who values collaboration and client relationships.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of situations where you've had to ensure compliance, manage budgets, or handle client relationships. Prepare to explain your thought process and the outcomes of your actions, as this will highlight your commercial acumen and results-driven approach.
