At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams across multiple school sites while ensuring high-quality service delivery.
- Company: Elior, a people-first business with a mission to enrich lives everywhere.
- Benefits: Free meals, flexible working, generous holiday allowance, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team where your voice is valued and growth is encouraged.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education catering while enjoying a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Qualifications: Experience managing multi-site operations and strong client relationship skills.
The predicted salary is between 33750 - 41250 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Operations Manager with a strong track record of managing multi-site operations and building trusted client relationships? We’re looking for a confident and commercially focused Operations Manager to oversee 19 schools across Colchester, Essex, South London and Enfield, including primary, secondary, SEN and all-through settings. This is a high-profile, geographically diverse role, supported by an experienced operational structure, including Group Manager support across Essex and South London.
You’ll play a key role in leading teams, developing Site Managers, strengthening client relationships and driving consistently high standards across the region.
What you’ll be doing…
- Proactively manage teams in multiple sites.
- Accountable for overseeing recruiting, inducting, training and supporting Site Managers to deliver an efficient, high quality service to Elior UK, our customer and clients.
- Motivating and managing a team within multiple sites.
- Controlling and managing a budget creating a platform for financial growth.
- Ensuring ongoing team communications, including building internal and external relationships, management reporting and client liaison to enable operational excellence, retain business and innovative menu planning.
- Plan, lead and deliver effective mobilisation/demobilisation of contracts, co‑ordinating with relevant support functions.
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday
What can you bring?
- Proven experience of successfully managing multiple sites and teams, with strong external client management skills.
- Experience managing education catering sites, ideally across a mix of primary and secondary schools.
- A strong team player, able to inspire and motivate large teams.
- Previous experience in contract catering, with a strong commercial and operational focus.
Brilliant Work Deserves Brilliant Perks!
At Elior, we believe that when you love where you work, it shows. That’s why we make sure our team feels appreciated, supported, and set up for success! Here’s what’s waiting for you:
- Free, tasty meals – Enjoy tasty, nutritious food on us while you work!
- Flexible working – including part time roles, because life doesn’t run on a 9‑5 schedule.
- Plenty of Time to Unwind – generous holiday allowance of 33 days, with the option to buy more.
- Leave for life’s important moments – whether family, personal or unexpected.
- Give back time – paid volunteering days for the causes you care about.
- Room to grow – career development and learning opportunities for all stages of your career.
- Financial security – pension schemes and life assurance.
- Drive in Style – Enjoy a company car or car allowance.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
We’re a people-first business with over 10,000 colleagues across the UK, serving everything from stadiums to hospitals, schools to workplaces. Our mission? To enrich lives everywhere, every day. And here’s the best part - 87% of our team say they’re proud to work here! Why? Because we create a place where you’re listened to, trusted, supported, and valued.
We Celebrate You!
At Elior, diversity and inclusion aren’t just policies, they’re who we are. We know that different perspectives make us stronger, and we’re dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to succeed. Need any support or adjustments during the application process? Just let us know - we’re happy to help!
Operations Manager in Chelmsford employer: Lexington-Catering
Lexington is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its team members, offering a vibrant work culture where employees feel valued and inspired. With flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to career development, Lexington ensures that its General Managers can thrive both personally and professionally while delivering outstanding service in a dynamic law firm environment. Enjoy free meals, mental health support, and exclusive discounts, making every day at work rewarding and fulfilling.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Chelmsford
✨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 Lexington-Catering. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Lexington-Catering
Don't be shy about reaching out to Lexington-Catering 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 Operations Manager in Chelmsford
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 Lexington-Catering 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 Lexington-Catering
✨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!
