Operations ManagerLocation: Northumbria UniversityBusiness: Chartwells – part of Compass Group UK & IrelandAbout the roleWe have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to join our senior management team at Northumbria University, working in partnership with our client to deliver outstanding food, hospitality and event catering experiences for students, staff and visitors.This is a key strategic role, responsible for operational excellence, commercial performance, customer experience and people leadership across a busy, multi-outlet university campus. If you're passionate about food, love delivering great events and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we'd love to hear from you.Key responsibilitiesOperational & Compliance LeadershipEnsure full compliance with food safety, health & safety, brand, legal and contractual standards, maintaining excellent audit resultsImplement and monitor operational standards consistently across all unitsProactively identify and mitigate operational risksEnsure accurate reporting and adherence to company and university policiesPeople LeadershipLead, support and develop operational teams through clear communication, coaching and visible leadershipCreate a positive, inclusive and high-performing team cultureManage recruitment, retention, succession planning and absence managementDevelop management capability through regular 1:1s, performance reviews and development plansSenior Management Team ContributionAct as a key member of the Senior Management Team, contributing to strategy and decision-makingCollaborate with peers to deliver shared objectivesSupport change initiatives and represent operations confidently with university stakeholdersCommercial PerformanceDrive sales growth, cost control and labour optimisationAnalyse financial performance and implement action plans to improve marginsSupport commercial strategies, promotions and events aligned to the university calendarEnsure effective stock management, pricing and purchasing controlsCustomer ExperienceChampion a customer-first culture across all outletsUse feedback and insight to continuously improve service and offerWork closely with university stakeholders to ensure services meet evolving needsLead by example in delivering warm, professional serviceAbout youYou'll be a confident, visible leader with a genuine passion for food, people and service excellence. Comfortable engaging with students and senior stakeholders alike, you'll bring energy, creativity and commercial focus to everything you do.Essential experience:Proven experience in contract catering, ideally within a multi-unit environmentStrong knowledge of food safety, health & safety and legislative complianceDemonstrable commercial capability, including budget management and margin improvementExcellent people management and leadership skillsExperience contributing as part of a senior management teamClear, confident communication and stakeholder management skillsDesirable:Experience in a higher education settingMulti-site contract catering experienceRelevant qualification in H&S, management or commercial disciplinesWhy join Chartwells?As part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, you'll be joining a market-leading organisation that values its people, invests in development and is passionate about delivering great food and memorable experiences.We ensure you\'re rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:Free mealsFree on-site gymFree onsite swimming pool accessContributory pension schemeGrow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmesQuick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefitsExclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many moreSave money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury\'s, Morrisons and many moreUp to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbusterReceive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brandsUn-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classesYou can share all discounts and offers with your friends and familiesAbout UsAs part of Compass you\'ll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK\'s biggest businesses.Job Reference: com/1812/91078001/52781832/SU Universities & CollegesCompass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!