Job Description:

Belmont Recruitment are currently seeking an experienced Catering Business Manager to work with our Local Authority client on a temporary basis. This is a full-time role working 37 hours per week on an initial 12 month assignment.

Overview:

The successful candidate will provide operational and business management support to a large School Meals Service, ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, efficient and cost-effective catering provision across schools. The successful candidate will oversee service performance, support operational teams, maintain strong relationships with schools and stakeholders, and contribute to the ongoing development and sustainability of the service.

Main Duties:

• Manage and oversee the business operations of the School Meals Service, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery
• Line manage and supervise central office staff, ensuring systems and processes meet operational requirements
• Support operational managers by providing business intelligence, performance information and system support
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with schools to ensure high service standards are achieved
• Lead on procurement activities relating to food, catering equipment, materials and protective clothing
• Monitor compliance with food safety legislation, food hygiene regulations, School Food Standards, COSHH and health and safety requirements
• Support service development initiatives aimed at increasing uptake and ensuring long-term sustainability
• Produce monthly, quarterly and annual performance reports to support service improvement and decision making
• Develop and maintain business plans, business continuity plans and risk assessments
• Support staff management processes including recruitment, performance management, capability, attendance and employee relations matters
• Work collaboratively with internal departments, suppliers and external stakeholders to support service objectives

Essential Criteria:

• Experience working within a catering, food service, school meals or similar operational environment at management or supervisory level
• Experience managing staff and overseeing service delivery within a customer-focused environment
• Knowledge of food hygiene, food safety legislation, allergen management, COSHH and health and safety requirements
• Experience of procurement and achieving value for money through effective contract and supplier management
• Strong organisational, planning and service management skills
• Experience producing reports and analysing performance data to support operational improvements
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Strong IT skills and experience using management information systems
• Relevant catering qualification or equivalent experience
• Ability to travel to sites as required

If your skills match the above criteria, please apply with your up-to-date C