Operations Manager (Temp to Perm) - Haywards Heath

Appetite4Work are looking for an experienced and driven Operations Manager to lead food & beverage operations across a multi-site hospitality destination.

This is a senior, hands-on role with real influence — shaping systems, building teams and driving excellence across service, people and performance. Working closely with senior leadership, you’ll play a key role in establishing and growing a values-led hospitality business from the ground up.

What You’ll Do

• Lead day-to-day operations across multiple hospitality outlets
• Be present on the floor during key services, setting standards and leading by example
• Recruit, train and develop teams, with a strong focus on succession and performance
• Work closely with senior managers and kitchen leadership to build a culture of excellence
• Ensure outstanding guest experiences and handle escalated feedback professionally
• Maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, safety and compliance
• Own budgets, targets, reporting and operational performance
• Collaborate with culinary and events teams to plan and deliver events
• Lead on health & safety, licensing and food hygiene compliance
• Implement and refine systems, processes and ways of working

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as an Operations or General Manager within hospitality
• Experience leading multi-department teams in a complex, fast-paced environment
• Strong financial and commercial understanding, including P&L responsibility
• Track record of recruiting, retaining and developing management teams
• Confident managing events and operational planning
• Comfortable using digital platforms for HR, stock, compliance and reporting
• Hands-on, proactive leader with a can-do mindset
• Excellent communication, organisation and attention to detail
• Passion for hospitality, sustainability and community
• Flexible to work evenings, weekends and holidays

Role Details

• Full-time, permanent position
• 5 days per week, including evenings and weekends
• Start date from February 2026 (subject to availability)

If this sounds like the job for you, please apply today with an up to date CV!