We are looking for an experienced Catering Manager to lead a diverse catering operation across cafés, restaurants, retail outlets and hospitality services. This is a highly visible role, combining operational leadership, people development, commercial performance and client engagement in a fast‑paced university environment.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
* Manage day‑to‑day catering operations across cafés, restaurants, retail outlets and hospitality services
* Ensure consistently high standards of food quality and customer service in line with Chartwells standards
* Deliver menu implementation, promotions and seasonal offers in line with Compass Group guidelines
* Work closely with peers, the Operations Manager and Contract Director to share best practice and build a strong, collaborative team culture
People Management
* Lead, coach and develop catering teams, creating a positive and inclusive working environment
* Manage HR processes including rotas, performance reviews, return‑to‑work meetings and recruitment support
* Ensure staffing levels meet operational demands while effectively managing labour costs
* Process staff timesheets and payroll accurately and on time using company systems
Health, Safety & Compliance
* Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation, allergen management, HACCP and Health & Safety policies
* Maintain excellent hygiene standards across all front‑ and back‑of‑house areas
* Carry out regular audits and implement corrective actions where required
* Promote a strong health and safety culture, including PPE and process compliance
Financial & Commercial Performance
* Manage budgets, forecasting, stock control and cost efficiencies to achieve financial targets
* Analyse sales data and introduce initiatives to drive revenue and increase student and staff engagement
* Manage supplier relationships, ordering processes and waste‑reduction initiatives
* Support the senior team to deliver strong commercial outcomes and an outstanding customer experience
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
* Build and maintain strong relationships with university partners, student representatives and internal Compass stakeholders
* Attend and lead regular team and peer meetings
* Respond effectively to customer feedback, escalating where appropriate
* Support university events, open days and bespoke hospitality requirements
About You
Essential
* Proven experience managing a large, busy retail catering outlet or multiple outlets
* Strong commitment to delivering excellent customer service
* Passion for creating and sustaining a positive team culture
* Organised, pragmatic and able to adapt to changing priorities
* Solid understanding of line management and HR processes
* Ability to work under pressure while maintaining attention to detail
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
You’ll Also Be
* A natural people‑person, confident engaging with students and senior stakeholders alike
* A role model for honesty, respect and fairness
* Commercially aware, with experience managing budgets and driving revenue
* Flexible and adaptable within a dynamic university environment
Desirable
* Experience using OurTime or a similar system
* Background in contract catering or large operational teams
* Strong interest in food & beverage, retail and events
Benefits
* Free meals
* Free on‑site gym
* Free on‑site swimming pool access
* Subsidised car parking
* Contributory pension scheme
* Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
* Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
* Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
* Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and many more
* Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
* Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
* Unwind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
* You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
About Us
As 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/0501/91076001/52781946/SU #Universities & Colleges
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!
Seniority level
* Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
* Full‑time
Job function
* Management and Manufacturing
Industries
* Food and Beverage Services
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