Application Details
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Job Description
Location: Derry, Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Contract Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: £35,000 per annum plus Sodexo Benefits
We are currently seeking an experienced and driven Business Manager to lead our catering operations within a well-established contract. This is an exciting opportunity for an innovative and passionate professional who is committed to delivering exceptional food quality and outstanding front‑of‑house service. You will play a key leadership role, ensuring all services are delivered in line with agreed service level agreements (SLAs), KPIs, and contractual standards while driving continuous improvement across operations.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, manage, and develop a high‑performing catering team
* Ensure consistent delivery of high‑quality food and service standards
* Maintain compliance across all sites (Finance, Health & Safety, Food Safety, HR)
* Deliver training programmes and ensure all staff are fully trained and up to date
* Monitor performance against KPIs and implement improvements where needed
* Conduct regular site audits and ensure audit readiness at all times
* Manage recruitment processes, including right‑to‑work compliance
* Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders
* Oversee budgets, cost control, and financial performance
Essential Qualifications and Experience
* Proven experience in a similar catering or service management role
* Strong leadership and team management skills
* Excellent communication and influencing abilities
* Solid knowledge of food safety, health & safety, and compliance standards
* Ability to analyse problems and implement effective solutions
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and data tools (e.g. Power BI)
Desirable Qualifications
* Hospitality qualification (or equivalent)
* IOSH or similar health & safety certification
* Experience managing client relationships
* Training qualifications (e.g. Train the Trainer, IFM Accreditation)
What You Will Deliver
* High levels of client satisfaction and service excellence
* Strong financial performance through effective cost and labour management
* A positive safety culture across all sites
* Increased employee engagement and team development
Benefits
* Unlimited access to an online platform offering wellbeing support
* An extensive Employee Assistance Programme to help with everyday issues or life's larger problems, including legal and financial advice, support with work or personal issues impacting your wellbeing
* Access to a 24hr virtual GP Service
* Sodexo Discounts Scheme, offering great deals 24/7 across popular high street retailers (also open to friends and family)
* Save for your future by becoming a member of the Pension Plan
Career Level
Not Required
Candidate Requirements
Minimum Experience Required (Years): 1
Minimum Qualification: Level 6 (incl Higher Advanced Certificate & National Craft Certificate)
Ability Skills: Administration, Interpersonal Skills
Competency Skills: Collaboration, Teamwork
Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of applications.
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