Group Manager

Grow and Thrive Limited; Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Aspens Services in East London is seeking a Group Manager to take ownership of service delivery across four kitchens and dining halls on a major school contract.

The role emphasizes financial and operational leadership, culinary innovation, staff development, and compliance with health and safety standards. You will act as the strategic link between the business and clients, driving excellence.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading large teams in hospitality or catering.
• Strong HR & performance-management skills.
• Financial acumen with budgeting experience.

Responsibilities

• Financial & quality oversight: control costs while maintaining high service quality.
• Culinary innovation: incorporate current trends to keep offerings fresh.
• People development: mentor and support team performance.
• Compliance & projects: ensure health & safety standards and lead projects.

Job description

The following content displays a map of the jobs location - East London

Aspens Services is a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food. We don't just serve meals—we create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen.

Our commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and we are looking for passionate people like you to join our journey.

The Role:

We are looking for an ambitious Group Manager to take ownership of service delivery across 4 kitchens & dining halls across one of our higher secondary school contracts. This isn't just about meeting expectations—it’s about using your operational and financial expertise to consistently exceed client, customer, and company goals. You will be the strategic link between our business and our valued clients, driving excellence in every service area.

This pivotal position offers:

40 hours per week

40 weeks per year

Key Responsibilities:

Financial & Quality Oversight:Take responsibility for controlling costs while ensuring service quality and delivery are maintained at a consistently high level.

Culinary Innovation: Guarantee our food offering is of the highest standard, proactively incorporating current high street trends to keep our services fresh and exciting.

People Development:Manage, mentor, and support the development and performance of your teams.

Compliance & Projects:Ensure robust adherence to all Health & Safety and Hygiene standards while leading strategic business projects as required.

About You:

You are an exceptional, results-driven leader with a genuine passion for food and service.

You have proven experience managing large teams, coupled with the confidence and communication skills to effectively handle HR and performance-related issues.

You are financially astute, with demonstrated experience in both managing and compiling budgets.

You are passionate about food, stay current with industry trends, and possess a clear, demonstrable understanding of what truly exceptional service looks like.

You are highly motivated, inspire others around you, and have a keen eye for detail that ensures success in every aspect of your role.

Please note, we expect all staff to share our commitment of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people so an enhanced DBS disclosure will be sought by the company