Senior Maintenance Engineering Manager

Our production unit takes pride in offering top-tier luxury airline catering that is both elegant and sophisticated. Our team is dedicated to crafting a one-of-a-kind experience that is attractive to even the most discerning passengers. We focus on providing exceptional quality, first-class service, and an exquisite range of menu options that are sure to impress.

We are looking for an experienced and hands-on Senior Maintenance Engineering Manager to lead the maintenance operations at our Heathrow Airport catering facilities. This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong technical background and a proactive approach to ensure the smooth, safe, and efficient functioning of all machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.

The ideal candidate will be an accomplished leader, skilled in managing teams, troubleshooting issues, planning preventive maintenance, and supporting business continuity in a high-demand, time-sensitive environment.

What will you be doing?

• Develop, implement, and oversee preventative and statutory maintenance schedules to ensure timely completion and compliance.
• Lead and manage daily and preventive maintenance activities across the facility to ensure all equipment and systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.
• Design and optimize maintenance programs to minimize downtime, enhance operational efficiency, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Supervise, train, and mentor maintenance engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of safety, teamwork, and professional growth.
• Prioritize and coordinate maintenance tasks, balancing short-term operational needs with long-term strategic goals within established timelines.
• Manage procurement, inventory, and control of spare parts, tools, and materials to ensure availability and cost-efficiency.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive documentation of maintenance activities, equipment records, safety procedures, and compliance reports.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations, company policies, and industry standards through regular audits and inspections.
• Analyse equipment performance data to identify inefficiencies, implement improvements, and support data-driven decision making, including automation of data collection and dashboards.
• Respond promptly to urgent repairs, diagnosing issues across electrical, mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, and utilities systems, providing technical support and troubleshooting.
• Conduct safety audits, facility inspections, and compliance checks to uphold regulatory standards and internal policies.
• Lead efforts to maintain up-to-date manuals, technical documentation, safety protocols, and audit readiness.
• Foster a proactive safety culture, promoting continuous improvement and best practices within the maintenance team.
• Develop and deliver training and development programs to upskill team members and enhance overall maintenance capabilities.
• Forecast maintenance needs, prepare budgets, and develop resource plans aligned with strategic business objectives.
• Stay current with technological advancements, industry best practices, and sustainability initiatives to improve operational performance and environmental impact.
• Develop and enforce maintenance policies, SOPs, and standard operating procedures across the organization.
• Drive energy efficiency and waste reduction initiatives in line with corporate sustainability goals.
• Support strategic planning, including capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) budgeting.
• Collaborate with management to identify opportunities for automation and process improvements within the engineering division.
• Promote a culture of safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.

• Minimum of 8 years' leadership experience in maintenance engineering within airline catering, hospitality, or high-volume production environments.
• Proven ability to manage large, multidisciplinary teams and oversee multi-site operations.
• Strong technical expertise across electrical, mechanical, HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, and utilities systems relevant to large-scale facilities.
• Demonstrated leadership in developing high-performing teams and managing process improvement, cost control, and resource optimisation initiatives.
• Excellent planning, organisational, and critical thinking skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and work effectively under pressure.
• Effective communicator capable of liaising with internal stakeholders, contractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Deep understanding of health & safety, food safety (HACCP), environmental compliance, and sustainability practices.
• Budget management and procurement experience, including developing and managing maintenance budgets for cost-effective operations.
• Proficiency in preventive and predictive maintenance strategies to minimise downtime and ensure continuous service.
• Ability to respond swiftly to emergency repairs and manage urgent repairs to minimise operational disruptions.
• Commitment to audit readiness, legal compliance, and adherence to industry standards.
• Knowledge of environmentally sustainable maintenance practices, energy efficiency, and waste reduction initiatives.
• Familiarity with regulatory inspections, audit processes, and standards applicable to airline catering and hospitality facilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related technical field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Relevant professional certifications such as CMRP, NEBOSH, IOSH, or equivalent.

We believe that our employees are the driving force behind our success and strive to create a positive and supportive work environment. As a member of our team, you will have access to a range of benefits, including:

• Competitive salary
• Enjoy perks by referring your friends through our Refer a Friend Scheme
• Save money and time with On-Site Free Meals
• Expand your skills and knowledge through our in-house training opportunities.
• A business where you can have a real impact, we’re not afraid of new ideas!
• Genuine career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally
• The opportunity to work with and represent one of the most innovative players in the luxury global gourmet entertainment market

DO&CO is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status

#docolondon