Catering Operations Manager - Canterbury
Catering Operations Manager - Canterbury

Catering Operations Manager - Canterbury

Full-Time 50000 £ / year No home office possible
Compass Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage catering operations and lead a passionate team to deliver exceptional food services.
  • Company: Join Chartwells, the leading provider of catering in the education sector.
  • Benefits: Enjoy free meals, discounts, wellness classes, and a comprehensive benefits package.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values your unique talents and fosters career growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through nutritious food and inspiring environments.
  • Qualifications: Experience in contract catering or hospitality with strong management skills.

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:

  • Free meals
  • Subsidised car parking
  • 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, 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

Chartwells is the leading provider of catering and support services to the education sector. For over a quarter of a century, Chartwells has been focusing on helping those in education to build strong bodies, sharp minds and lead long healthy lives. Every week, Chartwells serves millions of nutritious and delicious meals to pupils and students in primary and secondary schools, academies, independent schools, colleges and universities across the UK.

We believe in the power of food and drink to bring people together, whether in a restaurant or speciality café, to inspire them to do great things at work. Our food is crafted onsite by passionate people using the best ingredients and we know that a balanced, plant-focused, natural, fresh and sustainable menu will increase the productivity of our customers and keep them motivated and happy whilst at work. We provide amazing food, create inviting spaces, and develop engaging environments that inspire, motivate and unite our customers.

To be responsible for the overall efficient and effective management of the contract to provide great quality Foodservice and Support Services as required. Responsible for the management, development and training of a large team. Ensure the contract is compliant and run commercially in line with net growth and retention targets.

More about the role: Responsibilities Include:

  • To be responsible for the efficient and effective management of the contract
  • Build and maintain a positive and effective client relationship ensuring we are true partners in their business
  • To ensure the smooth planning of the contract and resources to deliver a first-class food and beverage service to our clients and customers

Who you are: As the Operations Manager, you will ideally have a successful background in Contract Catering/Hospitality/Retail, using your entrepreneurial skills to create a thriving and successful working environment. You possess excellent management and communication skills, have a good understanding of report writing and financial management, and be able to demonstrate your analytical approach to problem solving. You will have the ability to display a real passion for food and customer service and be financially and commercially astute.

Proven experience in leading and managing a high performing team. Extensive operational experience in a similar sized role. Exceptional stakeholder management skills. This contract is complex, devolved and requires exceptional client and customer relationship management skills. Track record of growing sales in both a competitive retail environment and through hospitality and events business. Foodservice or similar background. Excellent commercial acumen. Ability to communicate effectively at all levels.

About Us: As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.

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.

Catering Operations Manager - Canterbury employer: Compass Group

Chartwells, as part of Compass Group UK&I, is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees. With a comprehensive benefits package including free meals, subsidised parking, and access to wellness classes, we foster a supportive work culture that values diversity and encourages career development through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes. Located in Canterbury, this role offers the unique opportunity to lead a passionate team in delivering high-quality food services within the education sector, making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and staff alike.
Compass Group

Contact Detail:

Compass Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Catering Operations Manager - Canterbury

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the catering and hospitality industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. Focus on showcasing your management skills and experience in catering operations, as these are key for the role.

✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us. Good luck!

We think you need these skills to ace Catering Operations Manager - Canterbury

Contract Management
Client Relationship Management
Team Leadership
Financial Management
Report Writing
Analytical Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Commercial Acumen
Foodservice Knowledge
Stakeholder Management
Sales Growth Strategies
Communication Skills
Operational Management
Customer Service Orientation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Catering Operations Manager role. Highlight your background in contract catering or hospitality, and don’t forget to showcase your management and communication skills!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about food service and how your experience aligns with our mission at Chartwells. Keep it engaging and personal!

Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to grow sales and manage teams effectively. Numbers speak volumes, so include any relevant metrics or outcomes!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s quick and easy, and ensures your application gets to the right people. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group

✨Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, dive deep into Chartwells and their mission. Understand their approach to food service in education and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your background to their goals.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As an Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your communication and problem-solving skills. Highlight any specific achievements that showcase your leadership style.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-life situations. Think about challenges you've faced in contract catering or hospitality and how you resolved them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about their future plans for growth or how they measure success in the role. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also gives you valuable insights into the company culture and expectations.

Catering Operations Manager - Canterbury
Compass Group

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