Catering Operations Lead — Drive Excellence & Growth

Compass Group UK; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering service provider in the UK is seeking an experienced Catering Manager to lead operations and deliver exceptional food service on-site. Responsibilities include managing budgets, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and developing a motivated team. The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of experience, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage financial objectives while inspiring their team. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits offered.

Benefits

Free meals

Contributory pension scheme

Career development programs

Healthcare benefits

Travel discounts

Food discounts

Cash rewards

Wellness classes

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience managing catering operations ideally in a busy, high-volume site.
• Strong leadership, communication, and client relationship skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, costs, and performance targets.
• Confident leading large teams across multiple shift patterns.
• Solid understanding of food safety legislation and experience implementing HACCP systems.
• Commercial awareness and confidence using digital catering systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all catering operations to meet contractual, financial, and service objectives.
• Build strong client relationships through regular communication and performance reviews.
• Manage budgets effectively, controlling labour, food, and operating costs.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing catering team.
• Support the team during peaks and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Client relationship management

Budget management

Food safety

Tools

Digital catering systems

Job description

A leading catering service provider in the UK is seeking an experienced Catering Manager to lead operations and deliver exceptional food service on-site. Responsibilities include managing budgets, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and developing a motivated team. The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of experience, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage financial objectives while inspiring their team. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits offered.