Catering Contract Director Education Sector - Independent School Sussex - South East England Salary: up to £80,000 + Excellent benefits

We're recruiting on behalf of a premier education catering partner for a flagship leadership opportunity at one of the most distinctive independent schools in the South East.

This is not your average Catering Contract Director role. You'll be the operational lead across a high-profile, year-round catering and hospitality service — delivering exceptional daily food service, premium internal hospitality, and a commercial events portfolio that includes weddings, concerts, and corporate functions and much more.

This is a standout role for an experienced operator who thrives in complex, high-profile environments and knows how to balance precision execution with high-level strategy.

The Role Lead a large, diverse team delivering all on-site food services, events, and hospitality. Oversee day-to-day operations across student dining, boarding meals, and staff catering. Project-manage and deliver a wide range of internal functions and external commercial events. Drive service standards, financial performance, and long-term growth Own full P&L responsibility and reporting to regional leadership. Build strong stakeholder relationships within a client-focused, service-led environment. Work cross-functionally with all support teams in HR, compliance, marketing, and procurement.

You Bring Extensive senior-level experience managing large-scale hospitality or catering operations. Proven P&L management over multi-million-pound contracts. Deep understanding of both educational environments and commercial venues. A hands-on leadership style that motivates teams and instils accountability. Strong client relationship skills and confidence working with senior stakeholders.

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