Regional Operations Manager - East Anglia

Job Introduction

About us:

Our client is a market-leading contract catering company specialising in school food. By combining their understanding of the education sector with their knowledge of what’s on trend in the food world, they encourage creativity and excitement in their kitchens. This allows their teams to do what they do best and provide fantastic food experiences for the children.

By providing excellent care and services to both clients and children, they have ensured the successful growth of the company and to keep up with the rapid pace of this growth, they are now looking for a Regional Operations Manager to join the team in East Anglia.

The role:

Our client is now looking to appoint an experienced and driven Regional Operations Manager to oversee the team in East Anglia. Reporting to the Regional Operations Director, you will be responsible for leading our clients teams in delivering an excellent food operation and meeting and exceeding the client’s expectations.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Oversee and guide Operations Managers to ensure full compliance with contractual specifications, delivering services that meet or exceed client, customer, and company standards. Identify and implement opportunities for service enhancements.
• Track and manage operational compliance with company's Business Management Systems, ensuring all processes, policies, and procedures are effectively followed and aligned with agreed metrics.
• Lead, develop, and assess all direct-report managers, applying company performance management and appraisal processes to drive continuous improvement and professional growth.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to establish financial and commercial targets. Oversee and analyse regional and individual financial performance against budgetary goals, addressing any variances with actionable solutions.
• Ensure comprehensive QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment) management across all areas of operations to maintain the highest safety and quality standards.
• Actively participate in sales and retention processes, contributing to bid preparation and presentations to maximise success rates.
• As needed, manage specific contracts and client relationships directly to uphold company standards and strengthen client satisfaction.

About you:

• Industry Experience: Currently working in the hospitality or contract catering sector, ideally with experience in education catering. You bring a track record in a similar role, with multi-site management experience and a strong foundation in overseeing operations teams.

• Team Leadership: Skilled in supporting, coaching, and developing teams to instil a passion for high standards and exceptional service. You foster a collaborative environment and motivate team members to consistently deliver top-quality results.

• Client Relationship Management: With outstanding communication skills, you are adept at leading client meetings, managing expectations, and effectively addressing challenges to build strong, trusted relationships.

• Operational Excellence: Process-oriented and service-focused, you ensure all standards, procedures, and systems are rigorously maintained. You combine strategic thinking with attention to detail to ensure consistency and quality across operations.

• Technical and Organisational Skills: Proficient with IT and confident working independently, you’re organised, proactive, and dedicated to ongoing learning and achievement 

Why apply?

• Competitive salary of £60,000 - £65,000 per annum 
• The choice of a company car or a car allowance
• Company Pension, Healthcare, Life Insurance, 5 weeks annual leave plus a day off for your birthday
• Working for a fast-growing, ambitious company. There is no ceiling here in terms of where you can take your career

As one of the UK's fastest-growing independent businesses, you'll be joining a company where people are at our core and the opportunity to develop your career is endless. Our client offers fantastic learning and development programs and the ability to gain qualifications whilst supporting you all the way

Please note, our client does expect all staff to share their commitment of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people so an enhanced DBS disclosure will be sought by the company