General Manager

Thomas Franks Ltd.; Wokingham; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract catering company seeks a General Manager to oversee operations at its Sindlesham location. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing catering services within a B&I or educational framework. Key responsibilities include managing catering teams, enhancing client relations, and maintaining high standards of service. Attractive benefits such as free meals and career progression opportunities further enhance this exciting opportunity.

Benefits

Discount scheme at major retailers

Free meals during shifts

Volunteering leave

Enhanced leave policies

Cycle to work scheme

Referral bonuses

Comprehensive training programs

Team and social events

Employee assistance program

Workplace pension

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Prior experience as a General Manager in B&I or independent school contracts is essential.
• Strong ability to lead teams and manage client relationships is crucial.
• Experience in high-end catering or hotel settings is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Managing catering teams and ensuring excellent customer service.
• Overseeing daily operations across catering facilities.
• Conducting audits to maintain hygiene and safety standards.

Skills

Client relationship management

Leadership

Organizational skills

Financial acumen

Job description

A co-educational, independent day & boarding school in Wokingham, Berkshire, catering to boys and girls aged 3 months to 18 years. Serving approximately 1000 students and staff daily, the school offers breakfast, lunch, supper, and hospitality services throughout the year. The main contract operates during term time, while the nursery runs year-round, with shifts across 7 days. Onsite parking is provided free of charge.

We are seeking a talented General Manager to lead our team at our Sindlesham location.

The ideal candidate will have prior experience as a General Manager within a B&I Head Office contract or an independent school setting. The candidate should possess a bubbly, friendly personality and a trendy, quirky attitude.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing teams providing breakfast, lunch, retail, grab & go, and hospitality services.
• Ensuring accurate and timely completion of company administrative tasks.
• Developing catering services in line with client expectations, budgets, and development plans.
• Overseeing daily operations of all catering facilities throughout the year, adhering to business requirements.
• Providing excellent food and customer service, responding proactively to customer needs.
• Innovating the food offerings to match current market trends and company standards.
• Ensuring age-appropriate and dietary-specific food options are available at all times.
• Holding regular team meetings and training sessions.
• Preparing monthly accounts and reports for clients.
• Conducting monthly audits and maintaining food safety and hygiene standards, including allergen control.

Desired skills include:

• A genuine interest in food and customer service excellence.
• Strong client relationship management skills.
• Leadership and teamwork capabilities.
• Organizational skills with keen attention to detail.
• Financial acumen.
• Experience managing multiple locations, preferably as a current group manager.
• Experience in high-end B&I or independent education catering; hotel experience is a plus.

Benefits include:

• Discount scheme at major retailers, restaurants, and gyms.
• Free meals during shifts.
• Volunteering leave (up to one day per year).
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave policies.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Referral bonuses.
• Comprehensive training and development programs.
• Established apprenticeship schemes.
• Team and social events.
• Employee assistance program.
• Workplace pension.
• Opportunities for career progression within a leading contract catering company.

About Thomas Franks

Thomas Franks is a founder-led, fresh food catering business dedicated to excellence, service, and individuality. Our clients and staff are central to our success.

Application disclaimer

Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK. An enhanced DBS check, identity verification, and references covering the last five years are required. We are committed to safeguarding children and promote fair treatment for all applicants, complying fully with DBS regulations. Please note, applications for school roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974; all criminal records must be disclosed.

Diversity and Inclusion

We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups, believing that diversity fosters better results and a more inclusive workplace.