Cleaning Lead

Mitie; Braintree; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A facilities management company in the UK is seeking a Cleaning and Environmental Services Lead to oversee cleaning functions at Gunwharf Quays. The role requires strong leadership skills, a focus on health and safety, and proven experience in the cleaning industry. This position involves managing a team, maintaining high standards of cleanliness, and ensuring compliance with operational protocols. The salary ranges from £38,000 to £42,000 per year, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Proven people management experience is essential in overseeing cleaning staff.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and ability to conduct risk assessments.
• Basic IT skills for record keeping and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Ensure daily operational readiness across Gunwharf Quays.
• Maintain guest facilities to required standards; take corrective action as needed.
• Deliver excellence in guest experience focusing on health and safety.

Skills

Previous experience in a similar role within the cleaning industry

Basic knowledge of cleaning machinery

Proven people management experience

Strong understanding of Health & Safety policies

Excellent communication and organizational skills

Strong leadership and team management skills

Job description

Cleaning and Environmental Services Lead

Reports to: Cleaning and Environmental Manager

Location: Gunwharf Quays

Salary: £38,000 - £42,000 depending on experience

Employment Status: Full-Time (42.5 hrs)

Working Conditions

• Flexible hours including early mornings, evenings and weekends
• Working 5 in 7 days including every other weekend
• 30 min paid break
• 00 - 17:00

Purpose of Role

The Cleaning and Environmental Services Lead is responsible for overseeing Gunwharf Quays Cleaning and Environmental Services team and core cleaning functions. The role ensures guests enjoy a positive and stress‑free experience while maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety, and compliance. Working closely with the client and Centre Management team, the Lead will supervise staff, uphold Mitie standards, and support initiatives that enhance guest experience and drive footfall and sales.

Key Internal Contacts

• Site Managers
• Regional Managers and Directors
• Employees and prospective employees

Key External Contacts

• Guests
• External Contractors
• Brand Partners

Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensure daily operational readiness across Gunwharf Quays in collaboration with departments such as Retail, Marketing, MEBF, Guest Services, and Security.
• Maintain guest facilities to required standards; take corrective action as needed.
• Deliver excellence in guest experience, focusing on:
  • Health & Safety
  • Cleaning & Hygiene standards
  • Staff grooming and presentation
  • Guest interaction and courtesy
• Liaise with Line Management and Operations teams on FM‑related issues to ensure the site is guest‑ready.
• Team Supervision: Schedule, train, and evaluate cleaning staff performance.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Ensure adherence to COSHH, manual handling, and safety protocols.
• Inventory Management: Order and maintain cleaning supplies and equipment cost‑effectively.
• Maintain accurate records of cleaning activities, audits, and staff performance.
• Address guest complaints promptly and professionally.
• Oversee daily waste management operations in line with best practices.
• Prepare and manage daily/weekly/monthly work schedules for the team.
• Lead team huddles and meetings when required.
• Attend management meetings in support or absence of the Cleaning and Environmental Manager.
• Carry out first‑line disciplinary meetings following company procedures.
• Train and support team members to encourage development and compliance.
• Effectively oversee supervisors and ensure optimal performance throughout their working day by providing guidance, monitoring task execution, and maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. This includes conducting regular check‑ins, reviewing progress against set goals, addressing operational challenges promptly, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Carry out regular inspections of work areas and oversee corrective actions to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and operational standards. This includes identifying issues, implementing solutions promptly, and maintaining a high level of service performance across all assigned sites.
• Oversee payroll‑related tasks, ensuring accurate and timely submission of employee hours, scheduling, and rotas in compliance with company policies.

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Previous experience in a similar role within the cleaning industry.
• Basic knowledge of cleaning machinery.
• Proven people management experience.
• Ability to deliver under tight deadlines.
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety policies.
• Excellent timekeeping and attendance.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and ability to conduct risk assessments.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Basic IT skills for record keeping and reporting.
• Basic understanding of budgetary requirements to support cost‑effective operations, ensuring resources are utilized efficiently and financial considerations are factored into planning and decision‑making.

Note

This role profile outlines the key responsibilities but is not exhaustive. Additional duties may be assigned as required. The company reserves the right to amend elements of this role in line with business needs.