Commercial Catering Manager

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Purpose:

The Commercial Manager will support the Head of Hospitality & Service Delivery in all aspects of day-to-day commercial and financial strategy, ensuring all catering operational decisions have sound commercial influence. They will also be responsible for managing the Commercial Team’s day-to-day operations. Tasks including budgeting, forecasting, labour planning, payroll, cost controls, commercial analysis, financial reporting, and procurement.

The Role:

• Manage the current catering supplier database, and work with the wider Procurement team to ensure that the business is achieving the strongest catering commercial return.
• Support the Head of Department during procurement tender, renewal, or negotiation process with potential or existing suppliers.
• Support the Head of Department by managing projects and keeping up to date with technological advances in the Catering and Football Venues industries to drive innovation that may benefit the business.
• Full departmental analysis to maximise sales opportunities and reduce costs within the department to maximise profitability.
• Work closely with all Catering Operation Managers daily to ensure good commercial awareness and that strategy is consistent throughout the business.
• Crucial operation influence is required on match days within Hospitality and Public Catering areas, still undertaking commercial duties with an expectation to be a part of the operations teams and not just to influence
• Manage the Commercial Department by monitoring all processes and ensuring consistency and deadlines are achieved (e.g. stock management procedures)
• Commercial Management of 7 budgets and business areas
• Oversee the end-to-end payroll process for the casual workforce within the department.
• Effective relationship management with key suppliers with regular site visits
• Management of the EPOS software
• Management of the supplier benchmarking process and procurement
• Liaise with Group IT to ensure maintenance procedures for EPOS Terminals are monitored
• Liaise with Group Legal during procurement negotiation and Group Finance on a frequent basis
• Work with the Executive Club Team to ensure efficient management of match day commercial reporting
• Ensure the provision of timely and accurate information to the Head of Department where required
• Strategic planning to assist in achieving improvements in commercial and operational performance

Skills & Experience:

Previous Experience:

• Experience of working in a commercial or financial role
• Experience working with an EPOS system and has good IT awareness
• Proven track record of effective procurement management
• Experience managing a small team within the catering field would desirable
• Experience in managing a small team
• Stadium operational experience is desirable

Personal Qualities:

• Excellent communications skills
• Ability to motivate and manage a small team to achieve high standards
• Assertive approach ensuring all processes and policies are followed by all employees within department
• Outstanding eye for detail
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Flexibility and adaptability to work in any environment
• Hardworking and self-motivated to prioritise workload and work well under pressure

Technical Skills:

• Good negotiation technique
• Advanced Microsoft Excel user
• Excellent data analysing skills and eye for detail to produce outstanding analysis
• A strong understanding of stock management procedures
• Outstanding commercial awareness

What We Offer:

At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:

• Annual incentive scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and & nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
• Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment to You:

At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Ready to Join Us?

Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.

If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you.

It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.

#J-18808-Ljbffr