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- Tasks: Lead operations and financial performance at Hartpury University’s catering services.
- Company: Join Aramark UK, a leader in hospitality experiences across various industries.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, discounts, free parking, and culinary events.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team focused on operational excellence and community impact.
- Qualifications: 3+ years management experience in higher education and event management skills required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with weekend availability; Enhanced DBS check needed.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Aramark UK is seeking an experienced Account Director to become a vital part of our team at Hartpury University and College, Gloucester – one of the UK’s leading specialist education providers in agriculture, animal science, business, equine, sport and veterinary nursing. This role reports directly to the Director of Operations and has 4 direct reports. As an Account Director, you will oversee and manage operations at site level and help to drive continuous improvement. This site runs many events throughout the year so we would love to meet applicants with event management experience. If you thrive in achieving operational excellence and want to join an exceptional environment, read on!
This is a 5 over 7 position so you must be flexible / able to work weekends, as required.
An Enhanced DBS will be required for this position.
About Aramark UK: At Aramark UK, we empower our people to create moments that matter through exceptional hospitality experiences. We serve more than a dozen industries with pride and passion, building community, connection and careers all around the world. You’ll be surrounded by some of the most innovative minds in the industry and powered by our shared mission to pursue what matters. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to do great things for our people, our partners and our communities. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions and enable your growth. Supported by committed leadership, you’ll be empowered to try new things and find solutions to tough problems. No matter what you’re pursuing – a new challenge, a sense of belonging or just a great place to work – our focus is to help you reach your full potential and pursue what matters.
What’s in it for you:
- A competitive salary, plus eligibility for bonus
- Life assurance
- Generous annual leave that increases in line with service, with the opportunity to buy extra
- Access to a benefit platform – offering discounts and rewards
- Employee assistance programme, available for free 24/7
- FOOD! A plethora of opportunities to attend in-house events and try out the culinary genius of our teams (we are a food business after all!)
- Free parking on-site
A day in the life of an Account Director:
- Lead the operational and financial performance of the site’s catering services
- Implement strategic initiatives to drive business improvements
- Engage, market and communicate effectively with your team and stakeholders
- Collaborate with senior leadership to develop propositions for the higher education market
- Ensure compliance with all HR laws, hygiene, safety and food safety requirements
- Conduct regular client reviews and support new business and retention activities
- Lead contract negotiations and identify opportunities for growth
- Maintain and develop strong client relationships
You’ll be set up for success if you have:
- Minimum 3 years management experience in a higher education setting
- Experience with event management within a higher education setting
- Proven track record in delivering budgeted profit levels
- Ability to demonstrate leadership and success
- A full UK driving licence would be beneficial (not essential)
If you are applying for this role and you already work for Aramark, you must notify your line manager before submitting your application. At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive. As a proud Disability Confident employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey. We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any accommodations or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team. Join us in fostering a workplace where everyone can achieve their full potential. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Account Director employer: Aramark
Contact Detail:
Aramark Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Account Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Aramark UK's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to exceptional hospitality and community building will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how your experience and values match theirs.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your event management experience in conversations or networking opportunities. Since the role involves overseeing events, sharing specific examples of successful events you've managed can demonstrate your capability and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it has contributed to operational excellence in previous roles. Be ready to share specific instances where your leadership made a positive impact, as this is crucial for the Account Director position.
We think you need these skills to ace Account Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, particularly in management and event coordination within a higher education setting. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements and how they align with the role of Account Director.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention your understanding of Aramark UK's mission and values, and explain how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the Account Director position.
Highlight Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your leadership experience and ability to manage teams effectively. Provide examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives, especially in a higher education context.
Showcase Event Management Experience: Since the role requires event management experience, detail any relevant events you've managed, including your role, the scale of the event, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Account Director.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aramark
✨Showcase Your Event Management Skills
Since the role requires experience in event management, be prepared to discuss specific events you've managed. Highlight your organisational skills and how you ensured everything ran smoothly.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
As an Account Director, you'll lead a team. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your leadership style and how you motivate others to achieve operational excellence.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research Aramark UK’s values and mission. Be ready to explain how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goal of creating exceptional hospitality experiences.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
The role involves overseeing financial performance. Brush up on your budgeting and financial management skills, and be ready to discuss how you've previously delivered budgeted profit levels.
