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  4. Operations Graduate Programme 2025
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Compass Group UK & Ireland is the UK’s leading food and support services provider, part of Compass Group PLC, a FTSE 20 global leader in foodservice and facilities management. We work across diverse sectors including healthcare, education, business & industry, and sports & leisure, serving millions of customers every day; we are passionate about creating great experiences. Our Operations Graduate Programme offers a unique opportunity to grow within the heart of our business, working across a range of sectors and services.

The Operations Graduate Programme

Our Operations Graduate Programme is a fast-track, two-year scheme designed to develop future leaders in the foodservice and support services industry. This is a hands-on, dynamic role where you’ll gain exposure to different sectors, including healthcare, education, business & industry, sports & leisure, and defence.

Through structured 6-month rotations, you will take on real operational responsibilities, from the day-to-day operations of running a service, planning and executing exciting hospitality events, to stock management, health & safety, financial performance reporting, handling client and customer feedback, and leading teams to success. You’ll work at various Compass sites across the UK, ensuring that every service we provide runs smoothly, whether it’s catering at a major event or overseeing facilities at a corporate location.

We believe the best managers truly understand the business from the ground up. You'll shadow frontline teams and managers, gaining real-world experience from day one. By getting hands-on, you’ll not only learn fast but also make a real impact, leading projects and solving challenges.

You'll also benefit from a structured learning programme, with online tools, workshops, and a supportive network of fellow graduates. Plus, your dedicated mentor and Graduate Programme Manager will guide you every step of the way.

This programme is designed to develop you into one of our future Operations Managers, ready to lead single units, multi-sites, or even multi-service contracts. You’ll learn how to make key commercial decisions, collaborate with clients and senior leaders, and bring out the best in your teams—ultimately shaping the high-quality service we’re known for.

What we offer

  • Sector Rotations: Gain experience in multiple sectors, such as Healthcare, Education, Sports & Leisure, and Business & Industry and roles.
  • Leadership Development: Build essential leadership, project management, and operational skills, with guidance from industry experts and senior managers.
  • Mentorship and Support: Receive one-on-one mentoring and participate in tailored learning and development programmes.
  • Responsibility from Day One: Lead teams, manage operations, and take ownership of projects that contribute to the success of Compass Group’s services.
  • Career Progression: Upon successful completion of the programme, you will have the opportunity to secure a role in operations management where there are endless opportunities for growth.

What we’re looking for

  • Education: A recent graduate (obtained within the last 2 years) with a degree in any discipline, though Business, Hospitality, Management, or related fields are advantageous.
  • Passion for Operations: Enthusiasm for the foodservice and facilities management industries, with a desire to develop a career in operational leadership.
  • Leadership Potential: Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead, motivate, and manage teams in a fast-paced environment.
  • Adaptability: Willingness to take on new challenges and relocate as needed
  • Problem-Solving Skills: A proactive, solution-oriented mindset with excellent organisational and project management abilities.
  • Eligibility: The right to work in the UK & Ireland as Compass Group UK&I is unable to provide sponsorship to candidates for graduate programmes as the Home Office’s eligibility criteria will not be met.

How to apply

If you’re ambitious, passionate about operations, and ready to take on an exciting opportunity, click APPLY to submit your CV and answer a few quick questions about yourself. We’ll be in touch shortly to guide you through the next steps.

Further details on what to expect from the recruitment process and helpful tips can be found here. Recruitment

Join Compass Group UK & Ireland and start your journey towards becoming a future leader in the world of foodservice and facilities management!