At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a thriving café operation and develop a passionate team.
- Company: Join Compass Group, a leader in food and support services.
- Benefits: Career development, ongoing training, and wellbeing programmes.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in hospitality while inspiring your team.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and strong leadership skills.
We're looking for an enthusiastic and driven Catering Manager to take responsibility for a thriving caf operation in the Carlisle area. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate hospitality professional who enjoys ownership, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and loves developing people. You will lead a small team, manage the day-to-day operation, and play a key role in ensuring the caf delivers outstanding service, quality, and commercial performance.
- Managing all aspects of the caf and catering operation
- Leading, coaching, and developing a small on-site team
- Delivering an exceptional customer experience
- Managing stock, ordering, and supplier relationships
- Controlling budgets, labour costs, and financial performance
- Ensuring full compliance with food safety and health & safety standards
- Maintaining excellent food quality, presentation, and service standards
- Identifying opportunities to improve sales, engagement, and service delivery
- Building a positive and motivating working environment
- You are a confident and hands-on leader who takes pride in creating successful catering operations.
You'll ideally have:
- Previous experience as a Catering Manager, Caf Manager, Catering Supervisor, or similar hospitality leadership role
- Strong people management and team development skills
- Experience managing budgets, stock control, and KPIs
- Excellent organisational and communication abilities
- A passion for food, customer service, and operational excellence
- A proactive mindset with the ability to solve problems and make decisions
- Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification (desirable)
At Compass Group, we know that great hospitality is about more than serving food. It's about creating a welcoming environment, building relationships with customers, and delivering consistently excellent experiences.
Joining Compass means becoming part of a business that invests in its people and celebrates success.
In return, you'll benefit from:
- Excellent career development opportunities
- Ongoing training and support
- A supportive and inclusive team culture
- Access to Compass benefits and wellbeing programmes
- The opportunity to make a genuine impact within your business
Ready for Your Next Challenge?
If you're a hospitality professional looking for the opportunity to lead your own caf operation, inspire a team, and build a career with the UK's leading food and support services provider, we'd love to hear from you.
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Catering Manager - Carlisle employer: Compass Group PLC
Compass Group PLC is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds where you can lead a passionate team and make a real impact on customer experiences. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits including a pension scheme, and a culture that values high service standards, this role provides a unique opportunity to grow your career in the food service industry while driving profitability and creating memorable moments for guests.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Manager - Carlisle
✨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 Compass Group PLC. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group PLC
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group PLC 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 Manager - Carlisle
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 Compass Group PLC 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 Compass Group PLC
✨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!
