General Manager

Overview

Job Title: General Manager, Wallingford, Interim

Reference: 456

Our client is seeking an experienced General Manager to manage a Soft Facilities Management contract primarily covering cleaning and catering services across a secure and operationally sensitive site. The role requires a hands-on leader with strong operational oversight, excellent stakeholder engagement skills, and the ability to build effective client relationships. Candidates must be eligible for BPSS clearance; SC clearance is advantageous but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Hold overall accountability for the day-to-day management, coordination, and control of all Defence-related activities, as outlined in the contract’s Schedule of Requirements (SOR) and operational manuals, across the designated contract and affiliated sites.
• Drive growth opportunities, including the oversight of additional independent contracts operating on site.
• Plan, organise, and manage the delivery of all services across operational business areas to ensure consistent and effective execution.
• Ensure service standards, as defined by the Service Level Agreement (SLA), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and contractual terms, are met, maintained, and continuously improved.
• Support the development and expansion of services to meet both client and commercial objectives, while maintaining strict budgetary control within the operational scope.
• Foster collaborative business relationships in line with industry best practices and the organisation’s values.
• Lead and manage the performance of a designated group of direct reports, ensuring accountability, development, and alignment with operational goals.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• Proven experience in a management role within the Soft Facilities Management (FM) sector, with a strong understanding of service delivery in cleaning and catering.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities, with the ability to motivate and guide teams effectively.
• Strong people management skills, including general HR skills in recruitment, training, performance management, and handling disciplinary and grievance procedures.
• Good numerical, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly both verbally and in writing.
• Sound knowledge of health & safety and food safety regulations within a facilities management context.
• Confident decision-maker with the ability to act independently and take initiative.
• Comfortable working autonomously while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• High attention to detail and commitment to maintaining service standards.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify issues, develop opportunities, and implement innovative solutions.
• Eligibility for BPSS clearance, including a Basic DBS check.
• Experience working within a military or similarly structured environment.
• Previous success in a comparable management role within Soft FM.
• Health and Safety qualification (e.g., IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent).
• Food Safety qualification (e.g., CIEH Level 3 or equivalent).
• SC clearance is desirable (but not essential); this involves an Enhanced DBS check and comprehensive employment history verification.

Location

Wallingford, on-site

Start Date

Immediate

Duration

3+ months (potential for temp-to-perm transition)

Application Deadline

Open until filled – early application is encouraged as we review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early, subject to the volume of applications received.

Applicants must have full and ongoing right to work in the UK. We do not offer visa sponsorship or accept candidates requiring future visa support

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Contract

Job function

Management, Project Management, and General Business

Industries

Facilities Services, Government Administration, and Hospitality

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