Head of Operations - Food
| Posting date: | 30 September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Additional salary information: | Competitive |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 30 October 2025 |
| Location: | London, W1W 6DN |
| Company: | Compass Group |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 200043 |
Summary
Are you a dynamic and experienced catering professional with a passion for delivering exceptional food services, particularly within a healthcare setting? We are seeking a Head of Food Operations to lead, innovate, and drive excellence across our food services. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for operational performance, financial success, and customer satisfaction in a challenging and rewarding environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Team Leadership: Develop, inspire, and manage a motivated, skilled team to deliver exceptional food services, ensuring all team members are trained to meet business needs and achieve key performance targets.
- Operational Management: Oversee all aspects of food service operations, ensuring compliance with contractual specifications, client expectations, and company standards.
- Client Relations: Maintain strong communication with clients through regular meetings and updates, ensuring alignment and addressing any changes or challenges proactively.
- Action Planning: Create and implement action plans based on client satisfaction surveys to continually enhance service delivery.
- Revenue Growth: Maximise sales opportunities through effective up-selling, promotional activities, and innovative menu development.
- Compliance and Safety: Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) procedures, maintaining a safe environment for staff and customers.
- Cost Control: Manage budgets effectively, monitor gross profit (GP), reduce food wastage, and ensure purchasing compliance.
- Training and Development: Coach and develop team members to their full potential, ensuring continuous professional growth and maintaining high engagement levels.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Industry recognised qualifications are desirable but not essential
- Food Hygiene certification desirable but not essential
- Experience in retail or catering management.
- Proven experience in leading and managing teams.
- Strong financial acumen and proficiency with IT systems.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to a changing environment.
- Industry awareness and a professional, assertive demeanour.