Head of Operations

Elior; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract caterer in the UK is looking for a Head of Operations to oversee their catering services. The role involves managing a large team, ensuring client satisfaction, and driving profitability. Ideal candidates will have experience in contract catering and strong leadership skills. Salary is up to £55,000 per annum with a range of benefits, including a pension plan and holiday allowance.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle-to-work scheme

Workplace pension

Life assurance (x2)

28 days holiday (pro-rata)

Day off for your birthday

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Deputy Manager in the contract catering industry.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment operating 7 days a week.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of 85 catering professionals.
• Develop and implement business strategies to drive growth.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Monitor financial performance and analyze data.
• Oversee menu planning and quality control.

Skills

Business acumen

Financial management

Leadership abilities

Communication skills

Creative thinking

Organizational skills

Job description

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Lexington is an award-winning contract caterer that focuses on providing great food and service to customers. To do this, we need fabulous people and we work hard to create an environment where our team members feel engaged, inspired, and valued. For this reason, we are hiring a brilliant Head of Operations to work in one of our prestigious contracts.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of Retail and Commercial Services for our contract catering operation. This role requires a candidate who is dynamic, business-savvy, financially astute, creative, and able to thrive in a fast-paced work environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the catering operation, ensuring exceptional service, client satisfaction, and profitability, and will report into an Account Manager.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a team of 85 catering professionals, ensuring high performance and cohesiveness across Retail and Hospitality in three buildings.
• Develop and implement business strategies to drive growth and increase profitability within a commercial account.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring satisfaction and retention.
• Monitor financial performance, analyze data, and make strategic decisions to meet commercial objectives.
• Oversee menu planning, food preparation, and quality control to ensure exceptional culinary experiences.
• Collaborate with chefs, food development teams, vendors, and suppliers to source quality ingredients and products.
• Stay updated with industry trends and incorporate them creatively into the catering operation.
• Develop and implement marketing initiatives to attract students and enhance Lexington's brand visibility on campus.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health, and safety regulations.

Working Pattern

40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with flexibility required for evenings and weekends.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience as a Deputy Manager in the contract catering industry.
• Strong business acumen and financial management skills.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment operating 7 days a week.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Good understanding of commercial marketing.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Benefits

Salary up to £55,000 per annum. Benefits include an Employee Assistance Programme, cycle-to-work scheme, workplace pension, life assurance (x2), 28 days holiday (pro-rata, including Bank Holidays), family benefits, and a day off for your birthday!