Job Description

Elior – A Workplace That Works for You
Are you an experienced Operations Manager with a strong track record of managing multi-site operations and building trusted client relationships? We’re looking for a confident and commercially focused Operations Manager to oversee 19 schools across Colchester, Essex, South London and Enfield, including primary, secondary, SEN and all-through settings.
This is a high-profile, geographically diverse role, supported by an experienced operational structure, including Group Manager support across Essex and South London. You’ll play a key role in leading teams, developing Site Managers, strengthening client relationships and driving consistently high standards across the region.

What you’ll be doing…
As an Operations Manager you will proactively manage teams in multiple sites as well as be accountable for overseeing recruiting, inducting, training and supporting Site Managers to deliver an efficient, high quality service to Elior UK, our customer and clients.
• Motivating and managing a team within multiple sites
• Controlling and managing a budget creating a platform for financial growth
• Accountable for ensuring ongoing team communications, including building internal and external relationships, management reporting and client liaison to enable operational excellence, retain business and innovative menu planning
• Plan, lead and deliver effective mobilisation/demobilisation of contracts, co-ordinating with relevant support functions
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday
Job ID: 7374
What can you bring?
• Proven experience of successfully managing multiple sites and teams, with strong external client management skills
• Experience managing education catering sites, ideally across a mix of primary and secondary schools
• Genuine interest in delivering customer service excellence
• A strong team player, able to inspire and motivate large teams
• Previous experience in contract catering, with a strong commercial and operational focus

Brilliant Work Deserves Brilliant Perks!
At Elior, we believe that when you love where you work, it shows. That’s why we make sure our team feels appreciated, supported, and set up for success! Here’s what’s waiting for you:
• Free, tasty meals – Enjoy tasty, nutritious food on us while you work!
• Flexible working – including part time roles, because life doesn’t run on a 9-5 schedule.
• Plenty of Time to Unwind – generous holiday allowance of 33 days, with the option to buy more.
• Leave for life’s important moments – whether family, personal or unexpected.
• Give back time – paid volunteering days for the causes you care about.
• Room to grow – career development and learning opportunities for all stages of your career.
• Wellbeing first – mental health support and wellbeing perks.
• Financial security – pension schemes and life assurance.
• Drive in Style – Enjoy a company car or car allowance
One small thing— we welcome you to apply using the name you feel most comfortable with! No need for legal names at this stage.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
We’re a people-first business with over 10,000 colleagues across the UK, serving everything from stadiums to hospitals, schools to workplaces. Our mission? To enrich lives everywhere, every day.
And here’s the best part - 87% of our team say they’re proud to work here! Why? Because we create a place where you’re listened to, trusted, supported, and valued.
Not sure you match every single requirement? Apply anyway! Research shows that many people - especially women and those from underrepresented backgrounds - hold back unless they meet 100% of the criteria. But we hire for potential, not just experience. If you’re passionate and ready to grow, we want to hear from you!
We Celebrate You!
At Elior, diversity and inclusion aren’t just policies, they’re who we are. We know that different perspectives make us stronger, and we’re dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to succeed.
Need any support or adjustments during the application process? Just let us know - we’re happy to help!
Ready to join us? Hit ‘Apply Now’ and let’s chat!