Deputy Account Director - UK

Chartwells; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading provider of catering services in the education sector seeks a Client Relationship Manager to oversee a national portfolio. The role demands strong leadership abilities, experience in contract catering, and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Successful candidates will exhibit a passion for food and hospitality as well as the skills to inspire their teams.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

Car or Car Allowance

Access to Digital GP

Travel discounts with various providers

Cash rewards on spending

Free wellness and exercise classes

Qualifications

• Experience in multi-unit contract catering or similar business.
• Proven record as a financially responsible manager.
• Ability to engage at all organizational levels.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a national portfolio and act as the primary client contact.
• Manage and inspire General Managers for seamless customer experiences.
• Lead future investment projects focusing on delivery.

Skills

Creative problem-solving

Effective communication

Leadership

Commercial awareness

Passion for food and hospitality

Job description

We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to:

• Contributory pension scheme
• Car or Car Allowance
• Career development through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
• Quick access to a Digital GP and wider healthcare benefits for you and your immediate family
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com, and more
• Discounts on groceries at Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and others
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets
• Cash rewards on spending, redeemable across various brands
• Free wellness, mindfulness, and exercise classes
• Share discounts and offers with friends and family

We are seeking a key point of contact for the client to ensure quality and service standards across the national business. The role involves managing, developing, and inspiring General Managers and their teams to deliver excellent customer experiences with strong commercial results. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, understand what good looks like, and project management experience is advantageous for leading future investment plans and delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Overseeing a national portfolio
• Acting as the primary client contact, maintaining quality and service standards
• Managing and inspiring General Managers and their teams for seamless customer experiences and strong commercial outcomes
• Leading future investment projects with a focus on delivery

Required Skills & Experience:

• Experience in multi-unit contract catering or similar catering business
• Ability to solve complex business issues creatively and implement strategies promptly
• Effective communication skills to motivate and engage at all organizational levels
• A passion for food and hospitality
• A proven track record as an innovative, financially responsible manager
• Demonstrated leadership skills

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, Chartwells is a leading provider of catering and support services to the education sector. For over 25 years, we have focused on helping students build strong bodies, sharp minds, and lead healthy lives. We serve millions of nutritious meals weekly across various educational institutions in the UK. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children; employment will be subject to pre-employment checks, including DBS and Children's Barred List disclosures. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and applicants must declare all previous convictions.

Compass Group UK&I promotes an inclusive environment where everyone can be themselves and advance in their careers. We celebrate diversity and aim to create a culture where all team members feel valued, empowered, and able to thrive.