About the roleWe have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Regional Operations Manager to lead, develop and inspire multi-site catering teams within the independent education sector. You will be responsible for delivering safe, compliant and high-quality food services while driving commercial performance, client satisfaction and continuous improvement across your portfolio.This is a highly visible role requiring strong leadership, operational expertise and commercial acumen, working closely with schools, clients and central support teams to deliver outstanding outcomes.Key ResponsibilitiesHealth, Safety & Food StandardsEnsure full compliance with HSE, food safety and company policiesLead safety walks, hazard spotting and food safety audits, ensuring actions are followed up effectivelyOversee hazard analysis, allergen controls and food safety procedures across all sitesEnsure new unit and temporary catering facility assessments are completed prior to openingIdentify and escalate food safety risks beyond local controlOperational ExcellenceRegularly visit sites to review standards, customer journey and productivityEnsure compliance with training records, logbooks and operational standardsDrive adherence to standards and mobilisation of new and retained contractsNutritional & Culinary StandardsCoach and support teams to deliver School Food Strategies and compliant menusEnsure menus align with FIR guidelines and allergen legislationLead audits, training and service consistency across all unitsEngage with students, parents and teachers to maximise participation and uptakePeople & Team LeadershipBuild, engage and retain high-performing teams across all sitesEnsure 100% compliance with DBS, training and workforce systemsLead recruitment, workforce planning and performance managementSupport colleague wellbeing, development and career progressionFinancial & Commercial PerformanceManage budgets, forecasts and financial cycles effectivelyOptimise labour, overheads and spend in line with benchmarksIdentify growth opportunities, additional services and investment proposalsConduct independent audits of cashless and safe salesClient & Stakeholder ManagementDevelop strong client relationships through structured meetings and engagement plansDeliver client retention strategies and support tender processesWork with senior stakeholders to proactively manage contract renewalsCapture success stories, case studies and references for future bidsMarketing, Innovation & Customer ExperienceDeliver pricing strategies and identify commercial opportunitiesCollaborate with schools to deliver engaging theme days and educational food initiativesChampion central marketing initiatives and innovation to stay ahead of consumer trendsWhat we're looking forEssentialProven experience managing multi-site operations within catering, hospitality, retail or facilities servicesStrong stakeholder management and negotiation skillsCommercially astute with a demonstrable track record of delivering resultsDesirableDegree qualified in business, hospitality or a related disciplineWhy join us?Opportunity to make a real impact within education cateringA values-led organisation with strong support and development pathwaysCompetitive salary and benefits packageA role that combines leadership, strategy and hands-on operational excellenceWe 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:Contributory 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/1612/214100/52781285/SU IndependentCompass 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!