At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams while managing catering contracts and driving commercial success.
- Company: Join a dynamic hospitality company that values innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension options, travel deals, grocery discounts, and wellness classes.
- Other info: Experience a unique interview process and thrive in a diverse, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing organisation with real autonomy and career progression.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in catering or hospitality and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Are you an aspiring Managing Director? Are you passionate about food and people, with the ability to build lasting client relationships? If you're an ambitious senior operations leader looking for the opportunity to run a business, influence strategy, and shape the future of a growing organisation, we want to hear from you.
As Operations Director, you'll take full ownership of a portfolio of catering contracts, leading high-performing teams, building exceptional client relationships, and driving commercial success. This is more than an operations role - it's a role with real autonomy, strategic influence, and genuine opportunities for career progression!
Key Responsibilities- Own and grow a portfolio of catering contracts
- Lead, coach, and inspire multi-site management teams
- Drive operational excellence, service quality, and innovation
- Build strong client partnerships and identify growth opportunities
- Take full accountability for budgets, profitability, and commercial performance
- Deliver strategic improvements that support long-term business success
- Has senior multi-site leadership experience within catering, hospitality, or food services
- Thinks commercially and understands how to drive profitable growth
- Is an inspiring leader who develops high-performing teams
- Builds trusted relationships with clients and stakeholders
- Leads from the front and is ready to take the next step in their career
Our interview process is designed to give you a genuine insight into the role. You'll meet with our Head of Recruitment and Managing Directors, spend time within the business to experience what life as an Operations Director is really like, and finish by delivering a short presentation to showcase your ideas and communication skills!
Why work for us?- Competitive package
- Multiple Pension Plan options
- Clear Career development plans
- Travel deals for your 27 days holiday PLUS bank holidays
- Grocery discounts
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets
- Free wellness classes
About Us: Restaurant Associates provides brilliant hospitality through our food, drink and services. We work with our partners and collaborate with our clients to achieve great things together. Every day, our teams of passionate hospitality professionals strive for excellence in delivering employee dining and hospitality to some of the UK's leading workplaces as well as inspiring exceptional experiences in iconic cultural and heritage destinations.
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!
Strategic Operations Director - London employer: Restaurant Associates
Restaurant Associates is an exceptional employer in the Greater London area, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises high standards of customer care and cleanliness. With a commitment to employee growth, you will find ample opportunities for career progression while working in a dynamic environment that values teamwork and dedication.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Operations Director - London
✨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 Restaurant Associates. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Restaurant Associates
Don't be shy about reaching out to Restaurant Associates 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 Strategic Operations Director - London
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 Restaurant Associates 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 Restaurant Associates
✨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!
