Head of Operations

Job Introduction

• Head of Operations
• 40 Hours per week
• Competitive Salary
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh, EH3 5NZ

We seek an experienced and dynamic Head of Operations for the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, a flagship venue within our Heritage Portfolio sites. This pivotal role will drive operational excellence, strengthen client relationships, and deliver outstanding visitor and customer experiences across all catering and events services. The successful candidate will lead, develop, and manage the catering operations team, ensuring the highest quality, safety, and innovation standards while delivering commercial success.

This position requires a proactive approach to continuous improvement, financial management, and a commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment where excellence is the standard.

Heritage Portfolio was founded in Edinburgh in 2002, and since then, we have built a reputation for delivering exceptional catering and event services across some of Britain’s most iconic venues. Our focus on quality, creativity, and client satisfaction has earned us a loyal client base and a reputation for excellence in the industry.

Our guiding principle is building a business to be proud of, and as we expand our reach within bespoke events and visitor experiences, we remain committed to providing remarkable experiences that go beyond excellent food, creating memorable moments for every guest

Main Responsibilities

What you’ll do:

Team Leadership and Development 

• Maintain high performing teams through effective annual appraisals, staff engagement surveys, talent development, and succession planning.

Recruitment and Training 

• Recruit, train, and develop team members to ensure their skills align with their roles and personal development plans.

Financial Management 

• Achieve financial objectives by analysing monthly results, providing accurate forecasts, and delegating responsibilities to direct reports.

Operational Performance Improvement 

• Identify opportunities to enhance performance across all catering functions, including retail, events, internal functions, and staff amenities.

Client Engagement and Contract Management 

• Monitor client relationships and performance to support contract extension opportunities and ensure client satisfaction.

Client Relationship Building 

• Liaise with clients to understand their objectives and develop tailored strategies that align with the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh activities.

Health and Safety Compliance 

• Promote a zero harm culture by managing quality control, health, safety, and hygiene standards in line with company policies.

Incident Reporting and Response 

• Report any incidents, accidents, or safety concerns immediately and take appropriate action according to company procedures.

Operational Support 

• Provide operational support and ensure the effective delivery of services as directed by leadership.

The Ideal Candidate

What you bring:

• Experience managing a team in the events industry
• Strong commercial background with responsibility for managing a complex venue P and L
• A passionate interest in the catering industry, knowledge of current trends and interest in the hospitality world
• Demonstrable experience in a high volume hospitality and retail catering environment
• A competent communicator and ability to present to colleagues, peers, and clients
• Evidence of being organised and possess excellent planning skills
• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Email
• Proven record of managing a team encompassing operations, culinary, coordination, and finance
• Ability to motivate a team of mixed abilities and personalities

Desirable

• Experience and understanding of event costings and design of events
• Staff training experience or qualification
• Experience in assisting to create a sales and marketing plan
• Capability to identify and highlight revenue maximising opportunities
• Ability to produce accurate work to tight deadlines under pressure
• First aid and personal alcohol licence qualifications
• High degree of dependability and self reliance

Join Heritage Portfolio and Sodexo Live! for a fulfilling career where your individuality is celebrated, your impact is valued, and your development is supported. We’re more than a team — we’re a community of experience makers.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader, offering an interview scheme for qualified candidates with disabilities.

Be part of a forward thinking organisation where “Never Standing Still” is more than a motto — it’s how we thrive. Apply now and take the next step in your operations career.