Head of Operations

Sodexo; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global services company based in Edinburgh seeks a Head of Operations to lead catering and events at a renowned venue. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in hospitality, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for sustainability and innovation. This role offers a chance to create memorable experiences and advance within a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Bespoke training programme

Access to Learning Academy

Opportunities for internal promotion

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience managing teams in high-volume hospitality or events environments.
• Proven track record of managing complex P&L and delivering strong commercial results.
• Passion for food and hospitality, with knowledge of current trends and sustainability practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop and motivate a high-performing team across retail, events, and hospitality services.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in people, systems, and processes.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Job description

Head of Operations - Iconic Edinburgh Venue

Location: Edinburgh
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Head of Operations to lead and inspire the catering and events operations at one of Edinburgh's most iconic visitor destinations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the food and beverage experience at a venue renowned for its cultural significance and commitment to sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop and motivate a high-performing team across retail, events, and hospitality services.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in people, systems, and processes, ensuring exceptional customer experiences.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, aligning our offer with their vision and values.
• Deliver financial performance, achieving revenue and service level targets while maintaining uncompromising quality.
• Champion health, safety, and food standards, fostering a zero-harm culture.
• Identify growth opportunities and implement strategies that enhance commercial success and elevate the venue's reputation.

Sustainability & Community Impact

This role is central to delivering a food and beverage experience that supports environmental responsibility and social impact. You will champion initiatives that:

• Reduce carbon emissions and food waste through innovative practices.
• Promote local sourcing and partnerships with Scottish suppliers.
• Support community engagement projects and charitable initiatives that make a positive difference.

Career Development & Training

We believe in growing talent and creating opportunities. As part of our team, you'll benefit from:

• A bespoke training programme focused on service excellence and leadership.
• Access to our Learning Academy, offering over 250 courses and professional qualifications.
• Opportunities for internal promotion and career progression within a global hospitality network.
• Apprenticeships and specialist development pathways for culinary and operational excellence.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 5 years' experience managing teams in high-volume hospitality or events environments.
• Proven track record of managing complex P&L and delivering strong commercial results.
• Passion for food and hospitality, with knowledge of current trends and sustainability practices.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and engage diverse teams.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities, with a focus on operational excellence.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and confidence in presenting to stakeholders.

Desirable:

• Experience in event design and costings.
• Staff training qualifications.
• Knowledge of sales and marketing strategies for venue growth.

Why Join Us?

This is more than an operational role - it's an opportunity to create memorable experiences that connect people with culture, community, and sustainability. You'll work in a dynamic environment where innovation is encouraged, and every day brings the chance to make a positive impact.

Apply Today

If you're ready to lead operations at a landmark Edinburgh venue and deliver exceptional experiences, we'd love to hear from you.

Sodexo reserves the right to close this advertisement early if we are in receipt of a high volume of applications.

About Sodexo

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. We are a forces friendly employer. We welcome and encourage applications from people with a diverse variety of experiences, backgrounds, and identities. We encourage our employees to get involved with our Employee Networks such as Pride, Sodexo Parents & Carers, Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

We're a Disability Confident Leader employer. We're committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations.

Click here to read more about what we do to promote an inclusive culture.