Operations Manager

Talent Finder; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected catering service provider in Oxfordshire is seeking an Operations Manager to ensure high-quality service delivery across the region. Ideal candidates will possess significant experience in Education Catering, a strong track record in leading operational teams, and a commitment to compliance and performance excellence. This full-time position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including generous annual leave and a contributory pension scheme.

Benefits

25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays

Mileage allowance

Contributory pension scheme

Life insurance

Bonus

Qualifications

• Significant senior management experience within Education Catering.
• History of leading and inspiring large operational teams.
• Deep understanding of Food Safety regulations.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Operations Team to deliver exceptional performance.
• Develop and coach team members to exceed targets.
• Manage the operational budget with a commercial focus.
• Ensure compliance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Act as primary contact for clients, fostering strategic relationships.

Skills

Leadership and team management

Commercial acumen

Change management

Excellent communication skills

Understanding of Health & Safety regulations

Presentation and negotiation skills

Job description

Operations Manager (Catering – Multisite) | Oxfordshire | Full-time, 40 hours per week (Term Time Only) | Up to £40,000–£45,000 per annum DOE

Join a respected and growing organisation within the Education Catering sector, committed to delivering exceptional service, supporting school communities, and investing in the development and well‑being of its people. Our client prides itself on quality, integrity, and a culture where high performance is recognised and rewarded.

They invest in their people, celebrate individuality, and recognise those who go above and beyond. Successful candidates will join a supportive and dynamic organisation that empowers its leaders and offers genuine opportunities for progression.

What’s in it for you?

As part of their commitment to attracting and retaining exceptional talent, they offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
• Mileage allowance
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life insurance
• Bonus

Are you the right person for the job?

You are a strategic, values‑driven, and commercially minded leader with a strong track record in the Education Catering sector. You will thrive in this role if you bring:

• Significant senior management experience within Education Catering
• A history of leading, inspiring, and developing large operational teams
• Experience driving change programmes that deliver measurable improvements
• Strong commercial acumen in price‑sensitive, competitive markets
• Deep understanding of Health & Safety and Food Safety regulations
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• A leadership style built on integrity, accountability, and collaboration

What will your role look like?

As the Operations Manager, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth, high‑quality delivery of services across Oxfordshire. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading, inspiring, and managing the Operations Team to deliver exceptional performance
• Coaching and developing team members to consistently achieve and exceed targets
• Owning and managing the operational budget with a strong commercial focus
• Ensuring full compliance with all company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements (including Health & Safety and Food Safety)
• Tracking, reporting, and acting upon key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Acting as the primary point of contact for clients, fostering long‑term strategic relationships
• Ensuring contractual compliance and delivering defined commercial objectives within a competitive, price‑sensitive market
• Leading and implementing change programmes that drive measurable operational and commercial improvements

What’s next? It’s easy! Click “APPLY” now! We can’t wait to hear from you!

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