At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to ensure hygiene and safety in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Mitie, where our people are at the heart of everything we do.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a supportive workplace culture.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and leadership growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety and team performance in a high-profile role.
- Qualifications: Experience managing teams and knowledge of health & safety processes.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
LOCATION: Pladis Harlesden, Waxlow Road, Harlesden, NW10 7NY
At Mitie, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We’re committed to creating a workplace where you can thrive, develop, and make a meaningful impact every day. We’re now seeking a Hygiene Manager – Hygiene & Soft Services to lead operations at a flagship food manufacturing site in Harlesden. This is a high‑profile, fast‑paced role, offering the opportunity to take ownership of hygiene and soft services delivery within a 24/7 production environment.
The Opportunity
This is more than a hygiene role — it’s a leadership position with full operational responsibility for a team of 30–35 colleagues across hygiene and soft services. You’ll play a critical role in maintaining food safety, compliance, and audit readiness, while driving team performance and continuous improvement across both production and site facilities. Working closely with the Operations Manager and key stakeholders, you’ll ensure the site consistently meets the highest standards in a demanding, high‑visibility environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, develop, and motivate a team delivering hygiene and soft services across production and facilities
- Oversee daily and deep cleaning of production lines, machinery, and site areas in line with strict food safety standards
- Ensure full compliance with health & safety, food hygiene, and GMP requirements
- Drive a strong safety culture, ensuring correct processes for dismantling, cleaning, and reassembly of equipment
- Manage service delivery across soft services, including cleaning of communal and non‑production areas
- Maintain audit readiness at all times, supporting internal and external audits and client visits
- Build strong relationships with site stakeholders, acting as a visible and trusted operational leader
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement, efficiencies, and team development
About You
We’re looking for a people‑first leader with the confidence to operate in a fast‑paced, compliance‑led environment. You’ll bring:
- Proven experience in managing teams (30+) within cleaning, hygiene, or soft services
- Practical understanding of health & safety processes and risk management
- Experience in food manufacturing, FMCG, or a similarly regulated environment (advantageous but not essential)
- Strong leadership capability – able to coach, challenge, and develop teams
- Knowledge of cleaning processes, chemicals, and safe systems of work
- Confidence working in a high‑visibility role with senior stakeholders
- A proactive, hands‑on approach with the ability to adapt in a demanding, 24/7 operation
Hygiene Manager in Watford employer: Mitie
At Mitie, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where our employees can truly excel. As a Hygiene Manager at our flagship food manufacturing site in Harlesden, you will not only lead a dedicated team but also benefit from extensive professional development opportunities and a strong emphasis on safety and compliance. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced setting that values your contributions and supports your growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hygiene Manager in Watford
✨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 Mitie. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Mitie
Don't be shy about reaching out to Mitie 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 Hygiene Manager in Watford
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 Mitie 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 Mitie
✨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!
