Job Introduction
Compass Group is looking for a Catering Manager to join our established and thriving team on a permanent basis.
As our Catering Manager, you will take full ownership of the catering operation across both sites, ensuring everything runs safely, efficiently and to the highest standard. From food production and menu delivery to people leadership and financial control, you will be at the heart of a dynamic, multi‑site operation.
You will also play a key role in supporting the regional Support Squad and Customer Support Teams, responding to changing operational demands and ensuring we always have the right people, in the right place, at the right time.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Leading the delivery of high‑quality food services across Trinity and Landguard
* Driving sales through centrally developed menus, promotions and hospitality growth
* Championing Health & Safety and Food Safety standards, ensuring compliance at all times
* Taking accountability for kitchen cleanliness, equipment safety and hazard reporting
* Managing labour, rotas and budgets to deliver strong financial performance
* Building, developing and motivating high‑performing teams through training and coaching
* Managing recruitment, succession planning and formal HR processes
* Overseeing stock control, ordering, invoicing and waste reduction
* Planning food production in line with FPP guidelines
* Supporting and mentoring apprentices and trainee chefs
* Maintaining excellent client relationships and acting as a trusted partner
* Supporting vending operations and ensuring full availability across site
* Approving hospitality and function menus in line with pricing structures
* Leading and deploying Support Squads/CSTs across Wattisham, Woodbridge and the PFL
* Remaining flexible to support other nearby units when required
You will consistently role‑model The ESS Way and demonstrate Compass DNA behaviours at a managing level.
About You
You are an enthusiastic, hands‑on leader with a genuine passion for food and service. You are organised, commercially aware and confident managing both people and operations across multiple locations.
Essential
* Proven experience supervising or managing teams in a food service environment
* Strong communication skills with the ability to engage teams and clients
* Experience delivering against budgets and performance targets
* Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Sous Chef or similar
* City & Guilds 706 (1,2,3), NVQ Level 3 or equivalent
* Intermediate Food Hygiene (Level 3)
* Strong IT skills
* A “can‑do” attitude with integrity, ownership and pride in your work
Desirable
* Experience managing multiple catering outlets
* Menu development and innovation experience
* Advanced Food Hygiene
Benefits
* Free meals
* On‑site free car parking
* Contributory pension scheme
* Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes to grow your career
* Digital GP and wider healthcare benefits for you and immediate family
* Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and others
* Discounts on grocery shopping with Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and more
* Up to 44% off cinema tickets
* Cash rewards for eligible purchases
* Free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
* Ability to share discounts and offers with friends and family
Compass 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!
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