We're growing fast, and we're looking for an experienced Operations Manager to oversee a portfolio of schools, supporting our teams and ensuring exceptional food, service, and operational standards. This is a field-based role, so you'll need to be prepared to travel between sites.
Responsibilities
* Lead, motivate, and develop your teams to deliver outstanding results
* Build strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and stakeholders
* Monitor and improve operational performance across your portfolio
* Ensure food quality, hygiene, and compliance standards are consistently met
* Manage financial performance, including budgets, commercial and fixed-price contracts
* Support Chef Managers with recruitment, HR, and day-to-day operations
* Present data, reports, and insights to demonstrate operational success
Qualifications
You're a hands‑on, results‑driven manager who thrives in a fast‑paced environment. You'll have:
* Experience as an Area Manager or Operations Manager in contract or retail catering, managing at least 8 sites
* A proven track record of leading multi‑site teams, with strong people management skills
* Confidence communicating with everyone—from kitchen teams to senior stakeholders
* Excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise effectively
* Strong proficiency with Office tools, spreadsheets, and presentations
* A passion for fresh, contemporary food and delivering outstanding service
Benefits
* 25 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays
* Life assurance and company pension
* Healthcare
* Access to our online learning and development platform
* Employee wellbeing programme
* Salary sacrifice electric car scheme
* IFG Rewards high‑street discounts
* Annual Summer Party with company awards
We’re looking for someone who leads by example, motivates teams, and genuinely cares about people and food.
If you're ready to lead high‑performing teams, make a real impact, and take your career to the next level, we'd love to hear from you! Please note: An interview and assessment will be part of the recruitment process. IFG are committed to the safeguarding of children, and our employees share this commitment. Successful candidates are required to undergo an enhanced DBS disclosure and children's barred list check, which IFG will pay for.
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