Job Title: General Manager, Wallingford, Interim
Reference: 456
Summary of the General Manager role:
Our client is seeking an experienced General Manager to manage a Soft Facilities Management contract primarily covering cleaning and catering services across a secure and operationally sensitive site. The role requires a hands-on leader with strong operational oversight, excellent stakeholder engagement skills, and the ability to build effective client relationships. Candidates must be eligible for BPSS clearance; SC clearance is advantageous but not essential.
General Manager Deliverables / Outcomes (include but are not limited to):
* Hold overall accountability for the day-to-day management, coordination, and control of all Defence-related activities, as outlined in the contract’s Schedule of Requirements (SOR) and operational manuals, across the designated contract and affiliated sites.
* Drive growth opportunities, including the oversight of additional independent contracts operating on site.
* Plan, organise, and manage the delivery of all services across operational business areas to ensure consistent and effective execution.
* Ensure service standards, as defined by the Service Level Agreement (SLA), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and contractual terms, are met, maintained, and continuously improved.
* Support the development and expansion of services to meet both client and commercial objectives, while maintaining strict budgetary control within the operational scope.
* Foster collaborative business relationships in line with industry best practices and the organisation’s values.
* Lead and manage the performance of a designated group of direct reports, ensuring accountability, development, and alignment with operational goals.
Skills, Experience & Qualifications:
Essential:
* Proven experience in a management role within the Soft Facilities Management (FM) sector, with a strong understanding of service delivery in cleaning and catering.
* Demonstrated leadership capabilities, with the ability to motivate and guide teams effectively.
* Strong people management skills, including general HR skills in recruitment, training, performance management, and handling disciplinary and grievance procedures.
* Good numerical, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly both verbally and in writing.
* Sound knowledge of health & safety and food safety regulations within a facilities management context.
* Confident decision-maker with the ability to act independently and take initiative.
* Comfortable working autonomously while contributing effectively within a team environment.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
* High attention to detail and commitment to maintaining service standards.
* Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify issues, develop opportunities, and implement innovative solutions.
* Eligibility for BPSS clearance, including a Basic DBS check.
Desirable:
* Experience working within a military or similarly structured environment.
* Previous success in a comparable management role within Soft FM.
* Health and Safety qualification (e.g., IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent).
* Food Safety qualification (e.g., CIEH Level 3 or equivalent).
* SC clearance is desirable (but not essential); this involves an Enhanced DBS check and comprehensive employment history verification.
Location: Wallingford, on-site
Start Date: Immediate
Duration: 3+ months (potential for temp-to-perm transition)
Day Rate: Competitive day rate
Application Deadline: Open until filled – early application is encouraged as we review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early, subject to the volume of applications received.
*** Applicants must have full and ongoing right to work in the UK. We do not offer visa sponsorship or accept candidates requiring future visa support