At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational excellence across a national F&B portfolio and drive profitable growth.
- Company: Join a leading UK leisure business with a diverse F&B outlet portfolio.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £10,000 car allowance, performance bonuses, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Travel across the UK and collaborate with senior stakeholders for strategic improvements.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a dynamic environment with opportunities for career progression.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in F&B or hospitality with strong commercial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 120000 £ per year.
Quest Search & Selection is currently recruiting a National Operations Director - F&B for a leading UK leisure business operating a large national portfolio of company-operated and franchised F&B outlets, including QSR, takeaways, cafés, pubs and casual dining restaurants. This is a senior leadership opportunity focused on driving operational excellence, commercial performance and profitable growth across 28-37 high-footfall destinations throughout the UK.
Key responsibilities of the National Operations Director - F&B role:
- Lead operational performance across a national, multi-site F&B portfolio generating approximately £90m-£120m in annual turnover, with accountability for commercial performance, profitability and guest experience.
- Provide leadership and direction to a team of 4 senior managers overseeing operational support, franchise operations and new openings.
- Work closely with General Managers and senior operational leaders to identify opportunities, improve site performance and drive consistent operational standards.
- Develop strong partnerships with franchise operators, ensuring brand consistency, commercial performance and compliance with operational requirements.
- Drive revenue growth, margin improvement and cost efficiencies through effective financial management, performance analysis and commercial decision-making.
- Oversee the successful opening and integration of new F&B outlets, franchise concepts and operational initiatives across the estate.
- Collaborate with senior stakeholders across Finance, Commercial, Development, Digital and Operations to implement strategic projects and business improvements.
- Maintain high standards of food safety, operational compliance and service delivery, ensuring a consistent and engaging guest experience across all locations.
To be successful in this National Operations Director - F&B role:
- Significant senior operational leadership experience within a nationally recognised F&B, QSR, casual dining, pub, hospitality, leisure or franchise-led business.
- Currently operating, or having previously operated, in a national or substantial regional leadership role, overseeing a portfolio of comparable scale in terms of site numbers, operational complexity and turnover.
- A proven track record of delivering strong commercial results across large-scale, multi-site operations, with clear evidence of driving revenue growth, profitability and operational improvements.
- Experience managing both company-operated and franchised F&B concepts, with a strong understanding of the different operational and commercial requirements.
- Strong financial and commercial acumen, including full P&L accountability, margin management, cost control and identifying opportunities for profitable growth.
- An ambitious, high-calibre leader with a demonstrable record of career progression, consistently delivering results and taking on increasing levels of responsibility as this role will be succession for future Director position.
- Able to operate confidently at senior leadership level while remaining commercially engaged, operationally hands-on and credible with site teams.
- A strong understanding of food safety, regulatory compliance, brand standards and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
- Flexibility to travel extensively across the UK, including visits to the head office (home counties), with travel requirements of up to 3 days per week.
The benefits of this National Operations Director - F&B role:
- £10,000 annual car allowance.
- Performance-related bonus of up to 30%.
- Holidays, pension, friends & family discount.
- Potential long-term progression into a more senior operational leadership position.
- Field-based working with home-working flexibility and national travel.
If this opportunity sounds of interest and you have the relevant experience, please apply with your CV.
National Operations Director - F&B in Newbury employer: Quest Search and Selection Ltd
Join a leading international retail group as an HR Transformation (AI) Partner, where you'll be at the forefront of a major AI-enabled organisational transformation. This role offers a dynamic work environment with excellent employee benefits, including discounts, a contributory pension, and access to wellbeing programmes, all while working on-site in a collaborative culture that values innovation and growth. With opportunities for professional development and the chance to influence significant change, this position is perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced consumer business.
Contact Details:
Quest Search and Selection Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land National Operations Director - F&B in Newbury
✨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 Quest Search and Selection Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Quest Search and Selection Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Quest Search and Selection Ltd 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 National Operations Director - F&B in Newbury
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 Quest Search and Selection Ltd 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 Quest Search and Selection Ltd
✨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!
