Catering Operations Manager - University of Worcester

Catering Operations Manager - University of Worcester

Worcester Full-Time 30000 - 35000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Chartwells Universities

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team to enhance student experiences across four campuses.
  • Company: Join Compass Group, a leader in the catering industry with a focus on community.
  • Benefits: Enjoy discounts on travel, groceries, cinema tickets, and wellness classes.
  • Other info: Great career growth opportunities in a vibrant, inclusive environment.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of campus dining while inspiring a passionate team.
  • Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and a passion for food and service required.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.

We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:

  • Contributory pension scheme
  • Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
  • Quick access for you and your immediate family to a digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
  • Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
  • Save money on your food shopping with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
  • Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
  • Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
  • Free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
  • You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families

Looking for your next step… Join a growing catering team as the new Operations Manager. We are seeking an ambitious Operations Manager to drive footfall, hospitality business and student experience across the university's four campuses. If you have the drive to grow and want to be a part of the student experience here at Worcester, please apply.

This is a key leadership role, responsible for shaping and delivering the catering and hospitality vision. You’ll lead your team to provide exceptional daily service across the campus outlets and a rich hospitality calendar that includes formal dinners, open days, welcome events and celebrations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Leadership: Inspire and develop your team to deliver an exceptional service experience for all staff and students onsite.
  • Commercial Excellence: Deliver financial targets, identify opportunities for innovation and efficiency, and ensure both operational and commercial success is achieved.
  • Innovation & Engagement: Work with the senior management team to develop and deliver an engaging plan that includes pop‑ups, interactive sessions and events. Drive student engagement through these, feedback forums and student committees to ensure the offer evolves with their needs.
  • People Development: Recruit, train and inspire talented individuals, embedding a culture of pride, professionalism and continuous improvement.
  • Operational Excellence: Uphold the highest standards of health & safety, compliance, food quality and service across the operation.

About You

  • A strategic mindset with the ability to deliver day‑to‑day excellence while shaping long‑term vision.
  • A genuine passion for food, drink and service.
  • Influential leadership skills, able to create and nurture an environment that emphasises motivation, empowerment, teamwork and a passion for service.
  • Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
  • Flexibility, resilience and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, community‑focused environment.

About Us

As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive – because diversity is our strength!

Catering Operations Manager - University of Worcester employer: Chartwells Universities

At Compass Group UK&I, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions individuality and fosters a supportive work culture. As a General Service Assistant, you'll enjoy competitive pay, great perks, and unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth within one of the UK's largest businesses. Join our dynamic team where your contributions are recognised, and diversity is celebrated, ensuring you feel valued and empowered to thrive in your career.

Chartwells Universities

Contact Details:

Chartwells Universities Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Catering Operations Manager - University of Worcester

Get a Taste of the Scene

Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!

Network at Food Festivals

Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!

Show Off Your Skills

Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Chartwells Universities. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Universities

Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Universities directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!

We think you need these skills to ace Catering Operations Manager - University of Worcester

Leadership Skills
Commercial Acumen
Financial Management
Operational Excellence
People Development
Innovation
Customer Engagement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.

Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!

Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Chartwells Universities and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!

Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!

How to prepare for a job interview at Chartwells Universities

Show Your People Skills

In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!

Know Your Menu Inside Out

Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!

Demonstrate Your Team Spirit

Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'

Get Ready for a Practical Test

In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!