Regional Operations Manager Summary

We are looking to appoint an experienced and driven Regional Operations Manager to oversee our team in the North region across schools in Manchester. Reporting to the Regional Operations Director, you will be responsible for leading our teams in delivering an excellent food operation and meeting and exceeding the client's expectations. Your responsibilities will include:

• Oversee and guide Operations Managers to ensure full compliance with contractual specifications, delivering services that meet or exceed client, customer, and company standards. Identify and implement opportunities for service enhancements.
• Track and manage operational compliance with company Business Management Systems, ensuring all processes, policies, and procedures are effectively followed and aligned with agreed metrics.
• Lead, develop, and assess all direct-report managers, applying company performance management and appraisal processes to drive continuous improvement and professional growth.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to establish financial and commercial targets. Oversee and analyse regional and individual financial performance against budgetary goals, addressing any variances with actionable solutions.
• Ensure comprehensive QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment) management across all areas of operations to maintain the highest safety and quality standards.
• Actively participate in sales and retention processes, contributing to bid preparation and presentations to maximize success rates.
• As needed, manage specific contracts and client relationships directly to uphold company standards and strengthen client satisfaction.
  
  Industry Experience: Currently working in the hospitality or contract catering sector, ideally with experience in education catering. You bring a track record in a similar role, with multi-site management experience and a strong foundation in overseeing operations teams.
• Team Leadership: Skilled in supporting, coaching, and developing teams to instill a passion for high standards and exceptional service. You foster a collaborative environment and motivate team members to consistently deliver top-quality results.
• Client Relationship Management: With outstanding communication skills, you are adept at leading client meetings, managing expectations, and effectively addressing challenges to build strong, trusted relationships.
• Operational Excellence: Process-oriented and service-focused, you ensure all standards, procedures, and systems are rigorously maintained. You combine strategic thinking with attention to detail to ensure consistency and quality across operations.
• Technical and Organizational Skills: Proficient with IT and confident working independently, you're organized, proactive, and dedicated to ongoing learning and achievement
  
  Aspens Services Ltd is a market-leading contract catering company specialising in school food. By combining our understanding of the education sector with our knowledge of what's on trend in the food world, we encourage creativity and excitement in our kitchens. This allows our teams to do what they do best and provide fantastic food experiences for the children. By providing excellent care and services to both clients and children, we have ensured the successful growth of the company and to keep up with the rapid pace of this growth, we are now looking for an Operations Manager to join the team.
  
  
• Competitive salary of £62,000 - £65,000 per annum (OTE up to £74,000 - £76,000 per annum)
• The choice of a company car or car allowance of £650 per month
• Company Pension, Healthcare, Life Insurance, 25 days annual leave plus a day off for your birthday
• Working for a fast-growing, ambitious company. There is no ceiling here in terms of where you can take your career