Overview
JOB DESCRIPTION
Reports to: Senior Catering Manager
Responsible for: The Regional Operations Manager (Catering) oversees and manages the operational and financial performance of several School Meals Kitchens and Dining Centres within the portfolio. This includes day-to-day running of all schools in the region (e.g., up to 65 schools) with a staff base of approximately 238.
Job purpose: As a Regional Catering Operations Manager, you will directly lead, manage, and support the Senior and Unit Catering Supervisors within your portfolio. You will ensure resources are available to deliver the school meals service at the agreed standards. Management of hospitality and EA staff canteens will form part of your responsibilities. You will shape and nurture your team through a structured learning and development programme. You will need extensive experience in managing multi-site catering operations and strong people management, with the ability to perform under pressure, identify priorities, promote change, and lead transformation of the Catering Service.
Note: This job description may be reviewed in light of changing circumstances and is not rigid or inflexible. Other duties of a similar nature may be assigned from time to time.
Main duties and responsibilities
The post holder will continuously seek to improve the quality and value of the Catering Service in the following areas:
* Staff Management and Service Delivery: lead, motivate, and develop frontline managers; plan and coordinate regional meetings; ensure a sufficient permanent workforce; manage absences; recruit staff promptly; participate in large recruitment campaigns; integrate mobile team members within the region; coordinate internal communications; conduct annual performance reviews and follow-up actions; carry out investigations; implement disciplinary and grievance procedures; represent the EA Catering Service; manage relief/temporary staff; encourage innovation with the Service Improvement Team; monitor Locality Business Operations Plan; ensure nutrition standards and approved menus/portion controls across all sites; liaise with Energy and Sustainability Team.
* Service Improvements: work with the Service Improvement Team to implement improvements; lead in marketing and branding; promote theme days to increase footfall; support in meeting KPIs and SLAs; participate in workshops and committees; report on customer service trends and develop innovative solutions; identify sites requiring substantive improvements and implement improvement projects.
* Learning and Development / Health, Safety and Wellbeing: ensure induction and statutory training; manage annual training schedules; use EA training tools; identify skill gaps; participate in L&D programs; enforce mandatory training; manage health and safety documentation, accidents, near misses, and actions; promote wellbeing initiatives; ensure EHO actions are addressed promptly.
* Governance and Operations: implement policies and procedures; participate in quality assurance audits; oversee audits of school meals service; support future systems; plan new kitchens and openings; manage closures and staff redeployment.
* Procurement and Financial Management: participate in procurement processes; ensure equipment for each site; monitor usage; manage and report budgets; prepare financial reports; ensure timely financial returns; review operating models and costs as needed.
* Client Relationships and Building Relationships: maintain strong relationships with Principals and school leaders; ensure regular presence across schools; document issues and address them promptly; foster professional stakeholder relationships.
* Other: work outside normal hours if required and support other activities to promote EA Catering Service.
Qualifications and essential criteria
Essential criteria
* Option 1: Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent) in Hospitality/Catering-related subject AND one year in a management role within catering OR
* Option 2: HND in Hospitality/Catering-related subject AND two years in a management role OR ILM Level 5 in Leadership & Management OR HCIMA Professional Qualification AND two years in a management role
* Option 3: Four years’ demonstrable experience in a management role within catering
Knowledge
* Knowledge of food safety legislation
* Knowledge of financial acumen
* Knowledge of operational aspects within the catering industry
Other
* Must have access to a suitably maintained vehicle for EA business or provide suitable alternative transport; able to work flexibly and relocate as needed.
Section 2 - Additional Essential Criteria
* Demonstrates effective leadership, confident staff management, and conflict resolution; adheres to processes
* Advanced planning, time management, and organisational skills
* Strong verbal, written, and presentation skills; supports decision-making
* Ability to work independently and in teams; self-management and collaborative spirit
* Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality, customer-focused outcomes
* Ability to multi-task, prioritise, and align tasks with strategic objectives
Values
Evidence of alignment with EA values and ethos. Commitment to equality and service excellence.
Disclosure of Criminal Background
Enhanced Disclosure may be required for roles involving regulated activity; candidate pays the cost of the disclosure as part of pre-employment. Further information is available from NI Direct or the Department of Justice.
Guidance
Applicant guidance notes and benefits information are provided separately. The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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