At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise operations in a dynamic catering environment.
- Company: Somerset Larder, committed to fresh, local produce and community nourishment.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a supportive team that values collaboration and sustainability.
- Why this job: Shape the future of catering while making a positive community impact.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in complex operational settings and strong commercial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Somerset Larder produces fresh food and meals to go using locally sourced ingredients from all over the west country. Our philosophy is to nourish the community with amazing produce, to employ local people and to train apprentices for future careers in the catering and hospitality sector.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Operations Director to lead and integrate a diverse portfolio of services, including logistics, facilities, projects, catering, and culinary operations. This is a senior leadership role with full accountability for operational performance, commercial outcomes, and service excellence. You will play a critical role in shaping and delivering strategy, while ensuring seamless alignment between operational infrastructure and culinary delivery.
The successful candidate will bring strong commercial acumen, proven leadership of multi-disciplinary teams, and the ability to operate effectively within complex, client-driven environments.
As Operations Director, you will lead the end-to-end delivery of all operational services, ensuring they are efficient, compliant, and aligned to business objectives. You will be responsible for driving profitability, enhancing performance, and delivering exceptional client and customer outcomes.
A key focus of the role is the integrated leadership of both operational and culinary functions, ensuring effective collaboration between logistics, production, and service delivery to achieve a best-in-class catering operation.
Qualifications
- Proven experience operating at senior leadership or Director level within a complex operational environment
- Demonstrated ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams, including both operational and culinary/food production functions
- Strong commercial acumen with a track record of delivering financial and operational performance
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into effective execution
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
- Significant senior leadership experience in operations within catering, hospitality, facilities, or a related sector
- Strong knowledge of Health & Safety and Food Safety regulations within a catering or similar environment
- Experience leading integrated operations across logistics, facilities, and service delivery functions
- Experience delivering mobilisation, transformation, and continuous improvement programmes
- Strong IT and systems capability, including operational and asset management systems
- Advanced Health & Safety qualification
- Experience in large-scale contract catering or similar industries
- Experience of the design and compliance of new catering facilities
Somerset Larder Values:
- Togetherness – Collaborate and support one another
- Nurture – Develop people and capability
- Pride – Deliver excellence in everything we do
- Planet – Operate responsibly and sustainably
Operations Manager in Bridgwater employer: Somersetlarder
Somerset Larder is an exceptional employer that prioritises community engagement and employee development, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Somerset. With a commitment to nurturing local talent through apprenticeships and a strong focus on sustainability, employees can expect a supportive culture that values collaboration and excellence. The Operations Manager role provides a unique opportunity to lead innovative culinary operations while driving meaningful impact within the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Bridgwater
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the catering and hospitality sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups to meet potential employers and get insider info on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your achievements in operations management. Use real examples of how you've improved efficiency or driven profitability in previous roles to impress hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Ace the interview! Research the company thoroughly and come prepared with questions that show your interest in their operations. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in culinary and logistics.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find and apply for roles like Operations Director. Keep an eye on our listings and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Bridgwater
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Operations Director role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in operations, catering, or hospitality to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our values at Somerset Larder. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your commercial acumen and ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams. Numbers and results speak volumes, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Somersetlarder
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the company’s mission and values. Understand how Somerset Larder operates and what they stand for. This will help you align your answers with their philosophy of nourishing the community and supporting local produce.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to drive performance and enhance collaboration between operational and culinary functions. This is crucial for a role like Operations Director.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Acumen
Think about how you can contribute to profitability and operational performance. Bring examples of past successes where you’ve improved financial outcomes or implemented effective strategies. This will show you understand the business side of operations.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to talk about your experience in stakeholder management. Think of instances where you’ve influenced decisions at various levels. This will demonstrate your communication skills and ability to work effectively within complex environments, which is key for this role.
