Head Of Operations

Compass Group UK; Dartford; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension scheme

Digital GP access

Exclusive travel discounts

Cinema ticket discounts

Shopping discounts

Wellness programs

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I, Medirest, is seeking a Head of Operations to take ownership of soft services delivery across the hospital site. You will provide strategic direction, lead large teams, and ensure excellence in operations, safety, and service quality.

You will drive performance, manage budgets, and implement continuous improvements in partnership with the Contract Director, with a focus on patient experience and compliance in a healthcare environment.

Qualifications

• Senior management experience in Facilities Management and operational leadership.
• Experience leading large teams.
• Experience implementing change programmes and delivering operational efficiencies.
• Commercially astute with experience in competitive environments.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• In-depth knowledge of Health & Safety and food safety legislation.
• Experience managing client and third-party relationships at a senior level.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day delivery of services to meet/exceed expectations.
• Drive performance against financial targets, cost control, and profitability measures.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to improve operations and service quality.
• Monitor, develop, and support multiple outlets to ensure high standards of food, hygiene, and customer experience.
• Ensure mandatory training is completed and up to date for all team members.
• Drive health and safety and food safety compliance across all services.
• Maintain HR compliance and promote a high-performance culture.
• Act as a senior leader, stepping in for the Contract Director when required.
• Manage staffing schedules to ensure operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop frontline talent and build strong team engagement through training and recognition.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts, introducing new products and ideas aligned with industry trends and trust needs.
• Collaborate closely with internal and external stakeholders to maintain service excellence.
• Ensure security of Trust and Medirest property and support profit protection initiatives.

Skills

Senior management

Facilities Management

Team leadership

Change programmes

Health & Safety knowledge

Job description

Job Title: Head of Operations

Are you a strategic and driven operations leader ready to make a significant impact in a healthcare environment?

We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Head of Operations to take ownership of the soft services delivery in partnership with the NHA. In this key leadership role, you’ll provide strategic direction, lead high-performing teams, and ensure the consistent delivery of exceptional standards across all operational areas.

About the Role

As Head of Operations, you will be responsible for the successful delivery and continual improvement of all soft services across the hospital site. You’ll ensure operational excellence, financial performance, and compliance, all while fostering a culture of high engagement, team spirit, and legendary customer service.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day delivery of services to consistently meet and exceed expectations.
• Drive performance against financial targets, cost control, and profitability measures.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to improve operations and service quality.
• Monitor, develop, and support multiple outlets to ensure high standards of food, presentation, hygiene, and customer experience.
• Ensure mandatory training is completed and up to date for all team members.
• Drive health and safety and food safety compliance across all services.
• Maintain full HR compliance and promote a high-performance culture.
• Act as a senior leader, stepping in for the Contract Director when required.
• Manage staffing schedules to ensure operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop frontline talent and build strong team engagement through training, recognition, and effective communication.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts, introducing new products and ideas aligned with industry trends and trust needs.
• Collaborate closely with internal and external stakeholders to maintain service excellence.
• Ensure security of Trust and Medirest property and support profit protection initiatives.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven senior management experience in Facilities Management and operational leadership.
• A strong track record of leading, motivating, and developing large teams.
• Experience implementing change programmes and delivering operational efficiencies.
• Commercially astute with experience in competitive and price-sensitive environments.
• Strong communicator with excellent presentation and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of current Health & Safety and food safety legislation.
• Skilled in risk management, analysis, and mitigation.
• Experience in managing third-party and client relationships at a senior level.

Why Join Us?

This is your chance to make a real impact in a healthcare setting that makes a difference in people’s lives every day. You’ll have the autonomy to lead operations, shape strategy, and drive excellence, supported by a committed and values-driven team.

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

• Contributory pension scheme
• Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
• Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
• Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
• Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families

Please note: This role is contracted to weeks per year

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, Medirest is the specialist healthcare operating company of Compass Group UK & Ireland, providing a full range of hotel services, including staff, patient and visitor catering, domestics, portering, security and reception, at over 130 NHS Trusts and private hospitals.

Job Reference: com/2408/99320001/52815112/R/STC #Medirest

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!