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- Tasks: Lead and enhance catering services, ensuring top-notch customer experiences for students and visitors.
- Company: Join Canterbury Christ Church University, a vibrant and inclusive community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous holidays, and access to university facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on campus life while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Strong management skills and a passion for quality service are essential.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to sustainability and community.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Please note a full application including a covering letter detailing your experience alongside a CV is required for applications to be considered. Applications made without providing a cover letter will not be accepted.
Background of department/role: The Department of Estates and Facilities Services is responsible for developing the University's estate and improving the University experience for staff, students and visitors. The Catering, Hospitality & Conference Department are at an exciting point in the evolution of the service. The department recognises the need to drive standards and encourage good customer service. As part of the strategic ambitions of the department, we strive to improve student experience. University Catering Services play a crucial role in energising campus and providing a varied service offer to give students, staff, and visitors the best possible experience.
What will you be doing: We are looking for a Catering & Hospitality Operations Manager to join our well-established Estates and Facilities Directorate at Canterbury Christ Church University. The role of Catering & Hospitality Operations Manager is to lead on the service standards and delivery of the Catering and Hospitality Services Department. They will be responsible for the activities, key deliverables and ambitions of all the catering outlets within the department, ensuring continuous improvement of the department's core services, introducing new trends, and taking the lead on changes that need to be introduced to improve the service and drive the business forward.
Who are we looking for? We are searching for a highly motivated individual with a flexible approach and the ability to meet the expectations of providing a consistent and quality service to students, staff and external visitors. The ideal candidate will be:
- Customer focused, good communicator with established management skills.
- Ability to manage a large team, leading the catering service with a strong focus on good quality, sustainable and professional service delivery.
- Working with the Deputy Catering manager and Team Leaders to provide a fully integrated customer led catering service to maximise the staff and student experience.
- Support the other managers within the Catering department when required, to lead and front the service of Hospitality, Events and formal dinners.
- Team player who leads from the front, consistently working with colleagues to ensure the best service is offered.
How to Apply: Start date for applications: 23rd March 2026. Closing date for applications: 29th March 2026. Interviews are to be held: 13th April 2026. Informal enquiries to Rob Eyles at rob.eyles@canterbury.ac.uk, Catering Manager-North Holmes Road on (01227 922981) (strictly no agencies, thank you) quoting reference number REQ06093. Please note, Canterbury Christ Church University reserve the right to bring the closing date of this position forward where a high volume of applications is received.
Additional Information: Canterbury Christ Church University truly welcomes fresh perspectives and new voices. We want you to bring the real you to work, so we are committed to building a genuinely inclusive working environment where everyone is welcomed and can have a true sense of belonging. Our spirit of community will help us to eliminate discrimination and enable us all to thrive in a culture that is underpinned by fairness and justice. We therefore seek people to join us who will proactively support and shape this aim and contribute in their own unique way. If this is you, then we are waiting to hear from you.
Our University is deeply committed to shaping sustainable futures as a key part of its mission and values. If you share this passion, we encourage you to join us in making CCCU a more socially and environmentally conscious, sustainable place to study and work.
Employment Visa Clarification: According to the UK Government Points Based System, this position may not fulfil the requirements for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route application. Please note applications must be made online via the University website; details sent directly via email cannot be considered. Prior consideration will be given to applicants in the University's redeployment pool. No agencies, thank you.
Canterbury Christ Church University is located in the world-famous Cathedral city amongst stunning history and heritage. Canterbury is a thriving international destination, with many students and staff choosing to study and work here, making this historic, cosmopolitan city vibrant and culturally diverse. Our staff enjoy competitive salaries and a great working environment with a number of benefits ranging from the occupational pension scheme to use of the University's facilities including the library and fitness centre. We are strongly committed to equality and recognise the value of a diverse workforce. We offer generous holiday entitlements plus eight bank and public holidays, as well as discretionary days over the Christmas period.
Location: Canterbury: North Holmes Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 1QU
Catering & Hospitality Operations Manager in Canterbury employer: CANTERBURY CHRIST CHURCH UNIVERSITY
Contact Detail:
CANTERBURY CHRIST CHURCH UNIVERSITY Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering & Hospitality Operations Manager in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Canterbury Christ Church University and their Catering & Hospitality Services. Understanding their values and recent developments will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with their need for customer-focused service and team leadership. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! During the interview, let your passion for catering and hospitality shine through. Share stories that highlight your management skills and customer service experience. Remember, they want to see the real you!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure you submit your application online as specified. This not only ensures your application is considered but also shows that you can follow instructions—an important skill for any role!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering & Hospitality Operations Manager in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to detail your experience and how it aligns with the role of Catering & Hospitality Operations Manager. We want to see your personality and passion for customer service come through.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for someone who can lead a team and drive service standards, so make sure that shines through.
Follow the Application Process: Remember, we only accept applications made through our website. So, don’t forget to submit both your CV and cover letter there. It’s super important to follow this step to ensure your application is considered!
Show Your Enthusiasm: In both your cover letter and CV, let us know why you’re excited about this role and working with us at Canterbury Christ Church University. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about improving the student experience!
How to prepare for a job interview at CANTERBURY CHRIST CHURCH UNIVERSITY
✨Craft a Compelling Cover Letter
Make sure your cover letter stands out by detailing your relevant experience in catering and hospitality. Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive service standards and improve customer experiences, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Know the Department Inside Out
Before the interview, take some time to research the Catering, Hospitality & Conference Department at Canterbury Christ Church University. Understand their current services, challenges, and strategic ambitions so you can discuss how your skills align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss your management style and how you've successfully led teams in the past. Use examples that illustrate your ability to motivate staff, implement new trends, and ensure high-quality service delivery.
✨Demonstrate Customer Focus
Since the role requires a strong customer focus, think of specific instances where you've gone above and beyond to enhance customer satisfaction. Be ready to share these stories during the interview to show that you understand the importance of a positive experience for students, staff, and visitors.