Relief & Event Team Manager

Relief & Event Team Manager

Full-Time 32000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Compass Group UK & Ireland

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage catering operations and deliver exceptional events across multiple locations.
  • Company: Join Compass Group UK & Ireland, a leader in hospitality with an inclusive culture.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, career growth, healthcare perks, and exclusive discounts.
  • Other info: Join a passionate team and thrive in a supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role where every day is different.
  • Qualifications: Experience in catering and event management, strong leadership skills required.

The predicted salary is between 32000 - 40000 £ per year.

This job is with Compass Group UK & Ireland, an inclusive employer and a member of my Gwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.

Please do not contact the recruiter directly.

We're looking for an experienced, energetic and hands-on

Relief & Events Manager to support our workplace catering operations and deliver outstanding events across multiple locations.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment, enjoys variety, and is passionate about delivering exceptional food, service and customer experiences.

Whether you're managing a busy workplace café, supporting a corporate event, or leading a team through a high-volume service, you'll play a key role in ensuring our operations run smoothly and our clients receive the highest standards every time.

If you're a natural problem solver, enjoy leading people, and aren't afraid to roll up your sleeves, we'd love to hear from you. What You'll Be Doing Catering Operations

  • Provide management support across multiple catering locations, covering planned and unplanned absences.
  • Lead daily catering operations, ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation and customer service.
  • Supervise, motivate and support catering teams, coordinating rotas and staffing requirements.
  • Monitor stock levels, manage ordering and minimise waste.
  • Ensure full compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards.
  • Event Management
  • Support the planning, coordination and delivery of corporate and private events.
  • Work alongside the Operations Manager to deliver exceptional events from planning through to completion.
  • Liaise with clients to understand event requirements and ensure expectations are exceeded.
  • Lead event set-up, service and breakdown, ensuring every detail is delivered to a high standard.
  • Manage staffing, logistics and timelines while resolving any on-the-day challenges professionally.
  • Leadership & Team Support
  • Provide confident leadership across a variety of teams and locations.
  • Support recruitment, onboarding and training where required.
  • Create a positive, collaborative and high-performing working environment.
  • Lead by example with a hands-on approach.
  • Client Experience
  • Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service at every opportunity.
  • Respond to feedback and resolve issues quickly and professionally.
  • Operations, Compliance & Financial Performance
  • Complete operational, financial and event reporting accurately.
  • Support budget management, cost control and profitability across multiple revenue streams.
  • Monitor and report on key performance indicators including client satisfaction, operational efficiency and financial performance.
  • Maintain accurate records, schedules and compliance documentation.

About You We're looking for someone who brings experience, enthusiasm and a proactive attitude.

You'll have

  • Proven experience in catering management and event management.
  • Strong leadership and people management skills.
  • Excellent organisational and time management abilities.
  • Experience working in fast-paced, high-volume hospitality or contract catering environments.
  • Outstanding communication and customer service skills.
  • A strong understanding of food hygiene and health & safety legislation.
  • A flexible approach with the ability to travel between sites and work varying shifts.
  • A Food Safety/Hygiene qualification (Level 2 or above).
  • A Hospitality or Catering Management qualification (desirable).

This Role Is Perfect For Someone Who...

  • Enjoys variety and thrives in a role where every day is different.
  • Leads by example and isn't afraid to get involved.
  • Can motivate teams while maintaining high standards.
  • Is highly organised but can adapt quickly to changing priorities.
  • Takes pride in delivering exceptional service and memorable customer experiences.
  • Wants to make a real impact within a growing and ambitious food business.
  • What You'll Need to Know
  • Full-time, permanent position.
  • Flexible working hours including evenings, weekends and public holidays.
  • Regular travel between sites is required.
  • This is a physically active role involving lifting, carrying, setting up events and supporting operational delivery.

Why Join Us?

We're a growing hospitality business built on great food, exceptional service and passionate people.

We believe in empowering our teams, investing in development and creating an environment where everyone can succeed.

If you're looking for a varied leadership role where you can make a genuine impact across catering operations and events, we'd love to hear from you.

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 My Learning 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 shop 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
  • Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
  • You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families

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!

Relief & Event Team Manager employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland

Compass Group UK & Ireland is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Chertsey where you can truly make an impact on hospitality operations. With a strong focus on employee growth and a comprehensive benefits package, we foster a culture of excellence and teamwork, ensuring that our team members are recognised and rewarded for their contributions to delivering outstanding guest experiences.

Compass Group UK & Ireland

Contact Details:

Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Relief & Event Team Manager

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 UK & Ireland. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Compass Group UK & Ireland

Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group UK & Ireland 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 Relief & Event Team Manager

Catering Management
Event Management
Leadership Skills
People Management
Organisational Skills
Time Management
Customer Service Skills

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 UK & Ireland 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 UK & Ireland

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!