Hospitality Operations Manager in Godalming

We are seeking an experienced Hospitality Manager with a strong background in premium food and catering services to join our team at one of our prestigious education settings. If you are passionate about delivering exceptional events that leave a lasting impression - from intimate private dinners to large-scale functions - this is an excellent opportunity to showcase your expertise in a high-quality environment.

Based at the renowned independent boarding school, on the outskirts of Godalming, you will support the delivery of high-end hospitality services for an exclusive clientele. The role involves overseeing events featuring fine dining, silver service, and premium banqueting delivered to the highest standards.

Job Description

• Proven experience managing high-volume events, conferences, or catering operations within a 5-star hotel or corporate environment.
• At least 5 years' experience of managing events in your current role.
• Strong knowledge of food, hospitality, and operational delivery, with a keen eye for presentation and quality.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Calm, confident, and adaptable under pressure, capable of managing last-minute changes while delivering seamless events.
• Commercially minded, with experience managing budgets, labour costs, and identifying revenue opportunities.
• Exceptional organisational and planning skills, able to manage multiple events and work streams simultaneously.
• Experience leading and developing teams, motivating staff to deliver their best performance.
• IT literate, with familiarity using hospitality booking systems.
• Strong understanding of revenue management and guidelines to maximise event profit.
• Market knowledge of competitors and event industry trends.
• A proven track record and ability to provide high levels of service under pressure.
• Exceptional communication and customer service skills, both written and spoken.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to multi-task while maintaining an immaculate and professional appearance.
• An understanding and willingness to contribute to a 24h operational schedule when required.
• Experience working on large events circa 800 covers is preferred, but not essential.
• Ability to anticipate problems/issues and suggest proactive resolutions to be put into place.
• Strong operations and logistics management skills, including planning of shipments and transport.
• Strong spreadsheet and budget management skills, including use of Microsoft Excel.
• Presentation skills (verbal and written), internally and to clients/suppliers including use of Microsoft PowerPoint.
• Team management - management and coordination of junior team members.
• Creative thinking and awareness of event industry trends.
• Attention to detail and organisation critical.

You will possess excellent product knowledge, strong business acumen and lead your team by example. You will have a proven track record within the industry and have experience running and leading a strong team.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills, internally and externally with strong presentation skills.
• Is inspired to be a great leader and support, grow and nurture the team.
• Previous experience in delivering excellence in high volume events.
• Must be self-motivated and have the ability to work independently in a fast-paced and multi-tasking environment.
• Great team player.
• Proactive proven experience and able to adapt in an ever-changing environment with a calm outlook.
• Possess excellent written and oral communication skills, and superior presentation skills.
• Must possess strong organisational and time management skills.
• Working knowledge of computer systems (i.e., Microsoft Office) is essential.

Why Join Us?

• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays).
• 3 volunteering days to give back to causes you care about.
• 3 days grandparent leave for those special family moments.
• 24 weeks enhanced maternity leave.
• Bespoke training & development opportunities.
• Pension & life insurance.
• Discounts on high street brands, cinema & holidays via the Perkbox App.
• Wellbeing hub & access to employee assistance programme.
• Free meals while at work.
• Career development & HIT Apprenticeships for all experience levels.

Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.