At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations for a fast-growing restaurant division and drive profitability across multiple brands.
- Company: Join Sessions, a dynamic startup revolutionising the restaurant industry with rapid growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, share options, hybrid work, and 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Other info: Work in a fun, agile environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an ambitious team making a real impact in the food industry.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in hospitality or operations, with a focus on customer delivery.
The predicted salary is between 67500 - 75000 £ per year.
HYBRID - London Based (Victoria Station) & Remote 1 or 2 days per week
WHO ARE WE?
Sessions is building the operating model for the future of restaurants, giving consumers instant access to the brands they love, wherever they live. The Sessions distribution engine runs through 430+ delivery kitchens and 20 high street restaurants across the UK. Founded in 2020 and led by ex-Deliveroo MD Dan Warne, Sessions has grown 7x in three years. Our platform has processed over 5 million orders and reaches 60% of the UK population. Our team brings experience from Deliveroo, Amazon, BrewDog, and Gousto. We scale brands at a pace that redefines what's possible in food.
We are Agile - Thrive in fast-pace. We sprint, adapt, and learn.
We are Ambitious - Contribute to something big. Watch your career grow bigger.
We are Fun - High performance, high fives. Join a team you'll love.
We are Data-Driven - Turn insights into action. We lead with evidence.
We have Initiative - Anticipate problems. Drive the solution.
About The Role
As the Head of Operations for our fast-growing Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) division, you will be the chief architect of our operational excellence. You will be directly responsible for driving profitability, efficiency, and brand standards across our current portfolio of 20 franchise sites - with ambitious growth plans to triple this estate within the year. Managing multiple brands, including SoBe Burger, Ivan Ramen, Mikos and future star concepts, you will ensure seamless execution and maximum guest satisfaction across all locations.
This is a high-impact leadership role requiring a blend of strategic foresight, sharp financial acumen, and exceptional people management. Leading a lean corporate team (initially managing 1 Operations Manager), you will build and individually execute a scalable system that drives peak performance (revenue, operations, CX) across a rapidly expanding footprint. Your success will rely on your ability to ensure operational simplicity even as we add complexity (new brands, more locations).
Success will be defined by your ability to develop and execute a comprehensive operational strategy across multiple headline brands. You will be judged on your ability to hit financial targets, maintain audit-ready brand compliance, and establish a culture of continuous improvement, ultimately establishing Sessions QSR brands as the best-performing, most reputable concepts in the UK and beyond.
Responsibilities
- Pioneering Partner Operations Strategy: Create, develop, own, and execute the comprehensive operational support and compliance strategy for the 20-site QSR partner network.
- Performance & Partner P&L Accountability: Establish, monitor, and enforce ambitious, data-driven targets across the franchise network.
- Cross-Functional Leader & Compliance Excellence: Act as the Executive Sponsor and primary liaison with the Brand, Culinary, Sales and Supply Chain teams.
- Partner Value Maximisation & Retention: Direct and empower Franchise Business Partners (FBPs) to holistically monitor, coach, and improve partner operational compliance.
- Team Leadership & Capability Building: Mentor, and performance manage the QSR team’s Franchise Business Partners and the Operations Manager & QSR Training Manager.
- Strategic Margin & Supply Chain Intervention: Collaborate closely with Buying & Supply Chain, and Finance functions to protect franchise margins.
- International Market Expansion & Localisation: Act as the operational architect when expanding into new global markets and countries.
- Executive Reporting & Partner Forecasting: Deliver high-stakes monthly and quarterly network performance reviews and brand compliance audit results.
Requirements
- Leadership: Extensive experience operating at a senior leadership level within hospitality, or as a senior customer experience/operations leader.
- International Expansion & Localisation: Experience launching into new countries or global territories.
- P&L & Financial Management: Commercial accountability for large-scale multi-unit networks.
- Operational Blueprinting: Ability to design, document, and scale standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Data-Driven Performance Management: Proficient in leveraging tech-stack analytics to diagnose performance gaps.
- Supply Chain & Procurement Savvy: Ideally have a strong understanding of central supply chain logistics.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Skilled at acting as the bridge between crucial departments.
- Strategic Relationship Builder: Possesses high emotional intelligence (EQ) with the ability to build trust.
- Franchise Model Expertise: A background in a franchisor environment is a plus.
- Assertive yet Diplomatic: Capable of firmly enforcing brand standards while maintaining a collaborative relationship.
- Agile & Adaptable: Thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
- Solutions-Oriented Leader: A proactive problem-solver who anticipates systemic operational bottlenecks.
- Right to Work: must hold Right to Work in the UK.
- English Language: Fluent in written and spoken English.
Benefits & Perks
- Financial: Share Options, Pay day on demand, Expense card, Finance Platform.
- Hybrid Working: up to 2 days working remotely per week.
- Holidays: 25 days + bank holidays + Birthday Off.
- Healthcare: Vitality PMI + Healthcare Cash Plan scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Support for mental health and legal services.
- Socials: Monthly socials.
- Dog Friendly: We love our fluffy pals, they're welcome in the office!
- Dress Code: Wear what you like - No suits and ties please.
- Technology Perks: Apple Mac, Apple iPhone and company sim provided.
- Progression & Development: High Growth Start Up with plenty of progression opportunities.
- Membership & Qualifications: Support for work-based qualifications and memberships.
Sessions are a living wage and equal opportunity employer. All applicants are reviewed 'anonymously' where only work experience and education will be available for the hiring manager to view.
Head of Operations employer: Sessions
Sessions is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where innovation meets culinary excellence. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have access to a Management & Leadership Programme and opportunities to learn from industry leaders, all while enjoying a fun and agile culture that values your contributions. The benefits package, including flexible working options, generous holidays, and a dog-friendly office, ensures a balanced and rewarding work-life experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations
✨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 Sessions. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sessions
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sessions 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 Head of Operations
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 Sessions 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 Sessions
✨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!
