At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering operations, ensuring exceptional hospitality and service excellence across multiple sites.
- Company: Dynamic catering company focused on resident satisfaction and innovative dining experiences.
- Benefits: Free meals, flexible working hours, generous holiday allowance, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with a commitment to equal opportunities and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in hospitality while leading passionate teams and creating memorable experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing teams and a genuine passion for customer service.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a passionate and proactive Operations Manager to lead catering operations across multiple sites, with a strong focus on exceptional hospitality, resident satisfaction, and service excellence. This is a field‑based role, requiring regular presence across sites to support teams, oversee service delivery, and ensure consistently high standards. You’ll be a hands‑on hospitality leader who champions a resident‑first culture, anticipates guest needs, and delivers seamless, memorable dining and event experiences. Working closely with culinary, sales, and event teams, you’ll ensure high service standards are maintained while driving operational efficiency, quality, and profitability.
Responsibilities
- Lead and inspire teams across multiple sites, embedding a strong culture of hospitality and service excellence.
- Champion a resident‑first mindset, ensuring every interaction reflects warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail.
- Plan, coordinate, and deliver catering services for events including corporate functions, conferences, and social events.
- Oversee event set‑up, service flow, and breakdown to ensure flawless execution.
- Collaborate with culinary, sales, and event teams to ensure menus, service styles, and event details meet client and brand expectations.
- Anticipate client and guest needs, resolving issues proactively and discreetly.
- Gather and act on feedback to continuously enhance the resident and guest experience.
- Recruit, induct, train, and support Site Managers and teams to deliver consistent, high‑quality service.
- Manage budgets effectively, driving financial performance and service innovation.
- Build strong internal and external relationships through clear communication, reporting, and client liaison.
- Plan and deliver effective mobilisation and demobilisation of contracts.
Working pattern: Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours a week | Field‑based
Qualifications
- Proven experience managing multiple sites and teams, ideally within contract catering or hospitality.
- A genuine passion for hospitality and customer service excellence.
- A strong, inspiring leadership style with the ability to motivate large teams.
- Solid commercial and financial management experience.
- Confidence working with external clients and delivering against service expectations.
Perks
- 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.
Equal Opportunities Statement
We promote diversity and inclusion across our workforce and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all.
Accessibility
Need any support or adjustments during the application process? Let us know—we’re happy to help.
Operations Manager employer: Lexington-Catering
As an Operations Manager with us, you'll thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment that prioritises exceptional hospitality and resident satisfaction. We offer a range of benefits including flexible working hours, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for career development, all while fostering a culture of inclusivity and teamwork. Join us to lead passionate teams across multiple sites, ensuring memorable dining experiences and making a meaningful impact in the lives of our residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the 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
Show off your personality! When you get the chance for an interview or an informal chat, let your passion for hospitality shine through. Share stories that highlight your experience and how you’ve made a difference in previous roles. Remember, they want to see the real you!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you love, don’t wait for them to post a job. Reach out directly and express your interest in working with them. Tailor your message to show how your skills align with their needs, especially in operations management.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in hospitality and operations management. Consider taking short courses or attending workshops. This not only boosts your skills but also shows potential employers that you’re committed to personal growth. And hey, check out opportunities on our website!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Hospitality:When writing your application, let your love for hospitality shine through! Share specific examples of how you've created memorable experiences for guests or residents in the past. We want to see that you truly care about service excellence.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:As an Operations Manager, you'll be leading teams across multiple sites. Make sure to showcase your leadership style and any relevant experience managing teams. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and motivate others, so don’t hold back!
Be Detail-Oriented:Attention to detail is key in this role. In your application, mention how you've ensured high standards in previous positions. Whether it’s planning events or overseeing service delivery, we want to know how you keep everything running smoothly.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lexington-Catering
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the company’s values, mission, and recent achievements. Understanding their approach to hospitality and service excellence will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As an Operations Manager, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've inspired teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your ability to motivate and develop staff while maintaining high service standards.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing multiple events or resolving guest complaints. Think through your past experiences and be ready to share how you’ve successfully navigated similar challenges.
✨Demonstrate Your Financial Acumen
Since managing budgets is a key part of the role, be prepared to discuss your experience with financial management. Bring examples of how you’ve driven profitability and efficiency in previous roles, and be ready to talk numbers!
