Area Manager

• Make a meaningful impact - support the delivery of nutritious meals to schools across the region.
• Grow your leadership career - access formal development pathways and strategic opportunities within Compass Group's global network.
• Enjoy great perks - vehicle allowance, health insurance discounts, and a collaborative team culture.

He angitūtanga | The Opportunity

We're looking for a dynamic and experienced

Area Manager to lead operations across multiple school sites in the Hawkes Bay and Gisborne regions. You'll be responsible for driving operational excellence, supporting site teams, and ensuring compliance with Ministry of Education standards. This is a high-impact leadership role where your strategic thinking and people-first approach will shape the success of the School Lunch Collective.

Ko ō kawenga | Your Responsibilities

• Lead and support site teams to deliver consistent, high-quality food services across the region.
• Build strong relationships with MoE schools and ensure contract compliance and client satisfaction.
• Monitor financial performance, manage budgets, and identify opportunities for operational efficiencies.
• Recruit, train, and mentor staff to foster a culture of safety, engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure health, safety, and food safety standards are met and maintained across all sites.

He kōrero mōu | About You

• Proven multi-site operational experience in a similar role within the industry.
• Strong commercial acumen and ability to manage budgets and drive business excellence.
• Skilled in building productive relationships with clients and diverse teams.
• In-depth understanding of health, safety, and environmental principles.
• Able to pass a police clearance and pre-employment checks; NZQA Food Handling Certificate (Units 167 & 168) desirable.

Ngā painga | Benefits & Perks

• Training & Development: Online learning, NZQA qualifications, and apprenticeships.
• Career Progression: Formal career paths within Compass Group.
• Recognition: Star Awards, Service Awards, and performance bonuses.
• Health & Safety: A strong focus on your wellbeing.
• Discounts: Health insurance, gym memberships, optometry, and more.
• Site Perks: Company vehicle, and access to site amenities.

Mō mātou | About Us

• We are New Zealand's leading and largest provider of food and support services across multiple industries.
• These industry sectors are managed by our sub brands Eurest, Chartwells, Restaurant Associates, Medirest, and ESS.
• We specialise in turning ordinary acts of service into extraordinary experiential moments for our clients. With innovative and talented teams across New Zealand, we transform experiences from being GOOD to GREAT.
• Our people are awesome, they breathe life into our brands and make great things happen!
• Our strength comes from the combination of the things we have in common - our shared values, vision, and purpose and to make our commitment unique for you - RESPECT, GROWTH and TEAMWORK are the founding pillars of these commitments.
• We are an equal opportunity employer; we celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees.

Successful candidates will be able to satisfactorily pass a police clearance.

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

Ready to lead with purpose?

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'Apply Now' or contact our recruitment team at ***email_hidden***

Great People, Real Opportunities.