Are you a dynamic and experienced operations professional with a passion for delivering exceptional service in the education sector? We're looking for a dedicated Operations Manager to lead and support a portfolio of school catering contracts across South East England. In this pivotal role, you'll be responsible for operational excellence, client satisfaction, team development, and ensuring compliance with all company and statutory standards. You will also work closely with our sales and business development teams to retain existing contracts and support new opportunities. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in a role that blends leadership, strategic oversight, and a people-first approach, we'd love to hear from you., In this role you'll

• Develop and ensure a high focus on employee safety and positive client relations - ensuring that clients know you are on site and for what added value reasons.
• To conduct site service evaluations, realising action plans and implementing change required to meet the consistent standards
• To establish and maintain satisfactory relationships with individuals at all levels in the Company and Client sites
• Participate in creation of craft and business training modules to support operational / contractual obligations
• To implement and maintain the Statutory and Company standards of food and personal hygiene, health and safety and take any action as is necessary.
• Where required, support the recruitment, interviewing, control and discipline of staff according to the needs of the business and within the procedure laid down by the Company
  
  Operational knowledge, skills and experience in managing multi-site operations
• Ability to understand the clients and Company business strategies
• Financially and commercially competent, able to negotiate terms with clients to the benefit of Sodexo
• Experience in managing P&L accounts and acting on results
• Strong numeracy and attention to detail skills, with the ability to analyse and interpret figures, data and spreadsheets to manage the accounts in the business area.
• Ability to build strong relationships with customers and manage their expectations Understanding of contracts and what is being delivered
• Soft client relationship management skills, strong influencing, interpersonal and communication skillsAble to manage multiple internal and external relationships at a more senior level, Continuous improvement focussed, Understanding of the complexity of managing integrated services, ability to work in a flexible way and address problems when they arise
• Knowledge of risk and compliance processes, protocols, escalations and resolution methods
• Demonstrable people skills with experience in people management and a desire to create a one team approach
• Excellent communication skills - able to talk to people at all levels and adapt style accordingly, logical mind with the ability to resolve problems
• Ability to follow statutory and Company policies and procedures and guidance e.g. HR, Safeguard
• Ability to approach a range of issues in a sensitive and diplomatic way
  
  At Sodexo, this is more than just a job-it's your chance to be part of something greater. We celebrate individuality, encourage purpose-driven work, and empower you to succeed on your own terms. Here's what you can expect when you join us:
• A competitive salary & excellent benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.
• A diverse, supportive, and inclusive workplace.
Additional Perks & Benefits
• Unlimited access to an online mental health and wellbeing support platform.
• An Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support.
• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
• Exclusive discounts for you, your family, and friends through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme.
• Membership in the Mercer Aspire Pension Plan to help you save for your future.
• Learning and development opportunities to enhance your career growth.
• A Bike to Work Scheme, supporting both your fitness and the environment.