Deputy Account Director - UK

Compass Group; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the catering sector is seeking a dynamic individual to manage a national portfolio and maintain high service standards. This role requires strong leadership and communication skills, along with experience in multi-unit contract catering. The successful candidate will inspire teams, oversee quality, and drive future investment initiatives.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

Career development programs

Digital GP access

Exclusive travel discounts

Grocery discounts

Cash rewards for spending

Free wellness classes

Share discounts with friends and family

Qualifications

• Experience in multi-unit contract catering or a related business.
• Strong problem-solving skills and strategic implementation abilities.
• Effective communication skills to motivate at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Managing a national portfolio.
• Acting as the primary client contact to maintain quality and service standards.
• Leading and inspiring General Managers and their teams.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Leadership

Job description

We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Contributory pension scheme
• 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, and others
• Discounts on groceries at Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and more
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets
• Cash rewards for spending, redeemable across various brands
• Free wellness, mindfulness, and exercise classes
• Share discounts and offers with friends and family

The role involves being the key contact for the client, ensuring quality and service standards across the national business. You will manage, develop, and inspire General Managers and their teams to deliver excellent customer experiences with strong commercial results. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, project management experience, and a clear understanding of what good looks like, especially concerning future investment plans and delivery.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Managing a national portfolio
• Acting as the primary client contact to maintain quality and service standards
• Leading and inspiring General Managers and their teams
• Driving future investment projects and initiatives

Required Skills & Experience:

• Experience in multi-unit contract catering or a related business
• Strong problem-solving skills and strategic implementation abilities
• Effective communication skills to motivate at all levels
• A passion for food and hospitality
• A proven track record in innovative and responsible management
• Leadership capabilities

About Us:

Part of Compass Group UK&I, Chartwells is a leading provider of catering and support services to the education sector. With over 25 years of experience, we focus on helping students and pupils build healthy bodies and minds. We serve millions of nutritious meals weekly across schools and universities in the UK. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, with employment 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.

At Compass Group UK&I, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone can be themselves and advance their careers. We celebrate diversity and aim to create a culture of respect and empowerment, enabling all team members to reach their full potential.