Cleaning Manager

Ilford - Full Time

We're seeking a hands-on and experienced Cleaning Manager to lead cleaning and environmental services within a busy hospital setting. This role is vital to maintaining high standards of hygiene, infection control, and patient satisfaction across clinical, public, and administrative areas. You'll be the head of a large team of cleaning supervisors and operatives, ensuring compliance with NHS standards, driving performance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

What are the main responsibilities? 

As Cleaning Manager, you'll oversee daily cleaning operations across all hospital zones — including wards, theatres, labs, offices, and public areas. You'll be responsible for:

• Recruiting, training, and supervising staff, and managing rotas to ensure 24/7 coverage.
• Leading audits and inspections, resolving issues promptly, and maintaining compliance with NHS cleaning standards, CQC, COSHH, and infection control protocols.
• Managing stock levels, equipment use, and ordering of cleaning materials.
• Responding to urgent cleaning needs and incidents quickly and effectively.
• Monitoring KPIs and service levels, producing monthly reports and action plans.
• Collaborating with clinical teams, facilities departments, and external contractors.
• Overseeing pest control and maintaining accurate records.
• Using cleaning software (e.g., Merlin, Navenio) for reporting and performance tracking.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for an experienced Cleaning professional working within an NHS environment ideally working for an FM service provider or directly for the NHS. You will have experience leading a large team and have an eye to both ground operations and strategy led work. You'll also have:

• Strong understanding of the National Cleaning Standards, NHScleaning standards, COSHH, and infection control.
• Be able to understand and launch a 50 point audit on site as per NHS policy as well as T&C experience.
• Ability to lead and motivate large teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and cleaning systems (e.g., Merlin, Navenio).
• Hold experience working with or around Trade Unions.
• Ability to manage budgets and report weekly and monthly as required.

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