Job Description

We're looking for an experienced and innovative Food Development Manager to lead a high-performing contract team and drive the next generation of catering services across multiple London sites.
This is a pivotal role supporting both current contract performance and the rebid of a major catering contract, delivering exceptional food services from cafes and restaurants to vending and retail, while ensuring compliance, innovation, and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities -
Lead the contract team to deliver excellence in food services, compliance, and client satisfaction.
Drive rebid activities for new catering contracts.
Develop innovative, seasonal menus aligned with sustainability, budget, and client goals.
Ensure food safety, H&S, and contract compliance across all sites.
Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and suppliers to implement change and continuous improvement.
Manage financial performance, risk, and reporting for contracts and bids.
Accountabilities
Successful delivery of the next-generation contract bid.
Foster a culture of operational excellence within the team and across sites.
Deliver financial objectives - profit, cost control, and identify growth opportunities.
Support team performance through effective people management and change programmes.
Maintain H&S performance and compliance standards across all operations.
What you bring:
Essential:

• Proven experience in food development and large-scale catering mobilisation.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, health & safety, and compliance standards.
• Ability to manage bids, budgets, and complex multi-site operations.
• Confident communicator and strategic thinker with a flair for innovation.
• Proficient in MS 365 and Power BI.

Desirable:
Experience in bid writing or project management (PRINCE2, MSP).
Soft FM experience (catering, hospitality, cleaning).
Food safety or IOSH qualifications.
What we offer:
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. You'll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you'll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you'll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:

• Mental health & wellbeing support
• Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
• 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
• Discounts for you & family
• Financial tools & retirement plan
• Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
Salary 50,000 Per annum
Frequency Annual
Job Reference SDX/TP/1117004/150361
Contract Type Fixed Term - Full Time
Closing Date 21 November, 2025
Job Category Catering Management
Business Unit UK Government - Frontline
Location Central London, United Kingdom
No. of positions 1
Posted on 07 November, 2025

Skills Required