Job Introduction
Strategic Account Director
Are you a people-first leader with a passion for developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of growth? We’re seeking an exceptional Strategic Account Director to lead our catering operations, not just by driving performance but by inspiring the people behind it.
In this strategic leadership role, you’ll guide a diverse team across multiple contracts, nurturing talent, building strong client relationships, and driving sustainable business growth. Your leadership will shape a culture of excellence, where people thrive and partnerships flourish.
Who we are…
Compass Group Plc is a £20 billion turnover, global organisation and the world’s leading provider of food and support services. With operations across seven key business areas (Foodservice; Support Services; Business & Industry; Healthcare & Seniors; Education; Sports & Leisure; and Defence, Offshore & Remote), Compass serves customers in offices and factories; schools and universities; hospitals and senior living communities; major sports and cultural venues; remote mining camps and even offshore platforms.
Key Responsibilities:
- Inspire and Lead Teams: Build and develop high-performing teams, creating a culture where people thrive and deliver exceptional service.
- Drive Growth: Strengthen client relationships and identify opportunities to expand business across contracts.
- Elevate Performance: Champion operational excellence, ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance.
- Lead Financial Success: Oversee budgets and performance metrics to achieve profitability targets.
- Foster Innovation: Encourage continuous improvement and adaptability across all levels of the organisation.
Key Skills & Competencies:
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, guide, and motivate teams.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to build relationships at all levels.
- Strategic thinker focused on efficiency, profitability, and innovation.
- Expertise in budget management, financial analysis, and cost control.
- In-depth knowledge of food safety, health and safety regulations, and operational compliance.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, client-centric environment.
- Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive and solutions-oriented mindset.
What You Bring
- 3+ years experience at director level within a contract catering, hospitality or leisure business.
- A proven track record of leading and inspiring teams in a multi-site operational environment
- Experience in managing and growing client relationships and delivering on service excellence.
- A collaborative leadership style focused on coaching, performance development, and inclusive decision-making.
- Strong commercial and financial acumen, with a practical understanding of budgeting and cost control.
- Knowledge of health, safety, and food safety regulations, with a passion for high standards.
What you get:
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Regular emails filled with the best discounts and savings available
- Receive Wow Points every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways programme
- Compass exclusive offers on PerksAtWork