Head Of Operations - Onshore

Key Responsibilities

Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily operations across multiple catering sites to ensure consistent service quality and food safety standards.
• Implement company policies and operational SOPs aligned with contractual obligations.
• Ensure compliance with QHSE standards, HACCP, and local municipality food safety regulations.
• Monitor food, non-food, and payroll costs against budgets and implement corrective actions for variances.
• Review monthly operational and financial performance reports and take proactive steps to address shortfalls.
• Ensure all contracts are up to date and that site teams understand scope and deliverables.
• Identify process improvements, technology use (e.g., digital reporting), and efficiency measures.

Client & Stakeholder Relations

• Maintain strong client relationships through regular meetings and feedback reviews.
• Handle client complaints and service issues promptly, ensuring follow-up and preventive measures.
• Support the business development team by identifying expansion or renewal opportunities.

People Management

• Recruit, lead and develop Operation Support Managers, Site Managers, Chefs, and Supervisors through coaching and structured performance appraisals.
• Ensure manpower planning, vacation scheduling, and succession planning are effectively managed.
• Identify training needs and coordinate with HR and QHSE for upskilling and EFST compliance.
• Promote a positive work environment that encourages teamwork, communication, and motivation.

QHSE & Compliance

• Ensure all operations comply with company and client QHSE policies.
• Conduct site audits and safety inspections; ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Report incidents, accidents, or near-misses promptly and participate in investigations.
• Drive a culture of safety, hygiene, and continuous improvement across all sites.

Financial & Administrative Control

• Monitor daily and monthly performance indicators (food cost %, waste control, headcount, overtime).
• Liaise with Finance for budget adherence and with Procurement for cost optimization.
• Maintain asset and equipment inventory records for each site.
• Prepare regular operational summaries and reports for senior management.

Job Requirements

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor s Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management, Hotel Management, or Catering Technology.
• Professional certification in Food Safety, HACCP, or ISO 22000 preferred.
• EFST (Essential Food Safety Training) certification as per UAE regulations.
• Additional management or leadership certifications will be an advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 10 15 years of progressive experience in industrial or institutional catering operations, including at least 5 years in a senior operations management role overseeing multiple sites.
• Proven experience managing large-scale catering contracts (e.g., labor camps, remote sites, hospitals, or corporate clients).
• Strong exposure to client interfacing, service delivery management, and multi-site supervision.
• Experience in budgeting, cost control, and performance management within a catering business.

Technical & Functional Skills

• In-depth understanding of catering operations, menu planning, and food production systems.
• Strong knowledge of QHSE, HACCP, EFST, and UAE Food Control Authority requirements.
• Financial acumen with ability to analyze P&L statements, forecast costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, ERP systems, and catering management software.
• Familiarity with local supplier markets and logistics coordination for food and non-food supplies.

Leadership & Behavioral Competencies

• Excellent leadership and people management skills; capable of handling diverse, multicultural teams.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and client relationship-building abilities.
• Analytical thinker with effective problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritize multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.

Other Requirements

• Valid UAE Driving License (preferred).
• Flexibility to travel frequently across multiple sites within the UAE.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken); knowledge of Arabic is an added advantage.