Cleaning Lead

Mitie Group plc.; Essex; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading facilities management company in Essex is seeking a Cleaning and Environmental Services Lead to oversee the cleaning team and core functions at Gunwharf Quays. The successful candidate will ensure a positive guest experience and maintain high cleanliness standards. Responsibilities include staff management, health and safety compliance, and operational oversight. The ideal candidate will bring experience in the cleaning industry and strong leadership skills, while working closely with client management and other departments to enhance service delivery.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a similar role within the cleaning industry.
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety policies.
• Basic IT skills for record keeping and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee cleaning staff to ensure high standards are maintained.
• Liaise with management on operational issues to ensure guest readiness.
• Manage payroll-related tasks and ensure compliance with policies.

Skills

People management

Leadership

Time management

Communication

Organizational skills

Tools

Cleaning machinery

Job description

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

Ensure daily operational readiness across Gunwharf Quays in collaboration with departments such as Retail, Marketing, MEBF, Guest Services, and Security.

Responsibilities

• 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, and 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.

Qualifications

• 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.