Job Introduction
* 40 hours per week
* Mon - Fri with occasional weekend - 08:00 - 17:00
* Up to £32,500 per annum
* Sodexo rewards and benefits
Job Introduction
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Centre Manager to lead the catering, retail, and leisure operations at Merville Barracks, Colchester. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated leader with strong hospitality and management experience to make a real impact in a fast-paced and rewarding environment.
As Centre Manager, you’ll be responsible for delivering exceptional service standards, driving commercial performance, and maintaining excellent client and customer relationships. You’ll lead a dedicated team to ensure operational excellence across catering, retail, and leisure services — ensuring every experience meets both client expectations and Sodexo’s high standards.
Whatyou’ll do:
* Manage and oversee all catering, retail, and leisure operations within the centre.
* Drive performance through effective promotion, marketing initiatives, and service delivery.
* Plan, organise, and coordinate all catering activities — including menu planning, costing, and function management.
* Maintain and develop service standards in line with the Service Level Agreement (SLA) and contractual obligations.
* Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards.
* Monitor budgets closely to meet client and commercial expectations.
* Conduct performance reviews and implement development plans for direct reports.
* Build and sustain strong relationships with clients, customers, and the Authority.
* Promote continuous improvement, innovation, and high levels of team engagement.
* Attend briefings, meetings, and performance development reviews as required.
* Support a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
What you bring:
* Proven experience in a similar management role within the service or hospitality industry.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written.
* Sound knowledge of health & safety and food safety management.
* Confident using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
* Strong numerical, organisational, and problem-solving abilities.
* Experience in stock management, cash control, and customer service delivery.
* High attention to detail and commitment to upholding standards.
Desirable:
* Experience managing client relationships in a contracted services environment.
* Previous experience working within a military or defence setting.
What we offer:
Workingwith Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of somethinggreater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values youfor you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everydayactions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:
* Mental health & wellbeing support
* Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
* 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
* Discounts for you & family
* Financial tools & retirement plan
* Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day
Ready to be part ofsomething greater? Apply today!
Attached documents
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