Elior – A Workplace That Works for You
We’re looking for a commercially sharp, people-focused Operations Director to take ownership of a thriving portfolio across the Midlands within our Education division. We are seeking candidates located within the Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Coventry and Stoke locations. This is a high-impact role for a seasoned Operations Manager ready to step up, or an established Operations Director who knows exactly how to drive performance in education contract catering.
If you bring deep sector expertise, a strong grip on financial performance, and the ability to inspire teams to deliver exceptional service every day, this is your opportunity to make a real difference, both to clients and the communities we serve.
Elior is committed to safeguarding children and colleagues. Candidates that are shortlisted for this role, will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including Children's Barred List, and two suitable references.
What you’ll be doing…
Your key responsibilities as the Operations Director will consist of:
- Accountable for creating a culture of excellent customer experience within their community
- Accountable for ensuring legal and company compliance within strategic area of responsibility
- Accountable for creating a platform for financial growth, exceeding financial targets
- Accountable for building and proactively maintaining external relationships with senior clients to exceed client expectations, deliver a value-added service proposition which will build and sustain industry competitive advantage
- Oversee Operations Management function within area of responsibility
- Accountable for overseeing recruitment, support, training and development of operations team in order to deliver an efficient, high quality, financially beneficial value proposition to Company and senior client in line with Company processes
- Support the sales team with site visits, sales presentations, and ensuring bids are operationally sound. Developing centre of excellences within sites to be used as reference points is essential
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday | 37.5 hours per week
Job ID: 6184
What can you bring?
The experience and knowledge we are looking for from the future Operations Director include:
- Extensive experience in contract catering, within a multi-site, senior management role
- Ability to demonstrate experience in leading, inspiring and motivating a large and diverse team
- Proven experience of working closely and successfully with clients
- Confidence in numbers and P&L management
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!