At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead retail operations on match days and events at the Etihad Stadium.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at the iconic Etihad Stadium.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, generous holiday allowance, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant team with excellent growth potential.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in hospitality or similar service environments required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Deputy Head of Retail Operations is the number two to the Head of Retail Operations, playing a key role in leading the day‑to‑day delivery of Retail operations across General Admission and Premium Retail environments, across the Etihad Stadium. This is a hands‑on leadership role, responsible for driving match day execution, supporting operational planning, and leading teams across both Retail and Premium areas. You will take ownership of key areas of the operation, stepping in to lead in the absence of the Head of Retail Operations, while also supporting the ongoing development, structure, and performance of the department. This role combines operational delivery with leadership and development, within a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Match Day & Event Leadership
- Lead Retail operations on match days and events
- Operate effectively within a complex stadium environment, delivering high‑volume service across the Retail department
- Run briefings and manage salaried managers, supervisors, and casual teams
- Ensure operational standards, service delivery, and compliance are met
- Act as a senior escalation point during live events
- Operational Ownership
- Take ownership of specific Retail areas or work streams as required
- Support event planning, build, and post‑event processes
- Oversee stock readiness, set‑up standards, and operational execution
- Ensure consistency across all outlets and service points
- Support medium‑term operational planning and readiness for future growth across the Retail department
- Team Leadership & Development
- Support the Head of Retail in leading and developing the salaried team
- Coach supervisors and section managers to improve performance
- Help build a strong, engaged casual workforce
- Step up to lead the full operation when required
- Commercial & Performance Focus
- Support delivery of revenue targets and spend per head
- Monitor labour, stock, and wastage to support cost control
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and performance
- Contribute to continuous improvement across the department
- Cross‑Team Collaboration
- Work closely with Logistics, Culinary, Tech, and Finance teams
- Support alignment across Retail, Hospitality, and wider F&B operations
- Contribute to planning for new spaces and operational changes
- Represent Retail department operations confidently in match day, event, and planning forums with internal and client stakeholders
- Compliance & Standards
- Ensure adherence to food safety, health & safety, and licensing regulations
- Maintain high operational standards across all Retail areas
- Support audits, checks, and continuous improvement in compliance
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- Proven leadership experience in F&B, hospitality, catering, QSR, or similar service environments.
- Skilled in managing large, diverse teams in fast‑paced, high‑pressure settings.
- A strong track record of delivering exceptional customer service.
- Knowledge of food safety, health & safety legislation, and operational best practice.
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities.
- Strong admin and tech skills—Excel, EPOS systems, and reporting tools.
Job Benefits
- Private Medical Insurance (Vitality) – including Virtual GP access and rewards
- Group Life Assurance – 4x salary paid to your nominated beneficiary
- Birthday Day Off – an extra day to celebrate
- Complimentary Meals on Shift – breakfast, lunch, fruit and hot drinks
- Access to discounted Tickets at Co‑op Live subject to availability
- Employee Assistance Programme & Wellbeing Platform – including counselling support
- Employee Discounts Platform (Blackhawk) – cashback and savings across major retailers
- Company Pension Scheme
- Generous Holiday Allowance – plus bank holidays
- Career Development Opportunities – with progression across the campus
Deputy Head of Retail Operations in Manchester employer: Eastlands Venue Services Limited
Eastlands Venue Services Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and vibrant work environment in the heart of Manchester. With a strong focus on teamwork and employee well-being, we provide benefits such as private medical insurance and a generous holiday allowance, ensuring our staff feel valued and supported. Join us to grow your skills in a fast-paced hospitality setting where every day brings new opportunities for personal and professional development.
Contact Details:
Eastlands Venue Services Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Retail Operations in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research the Etihad Stadium and its retail operations. Understanding their values and culture will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about how you would handle match day challenges or team leadership scenarios. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and ready to impress during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter and ready to take on the Deputy Head of Retail Operations role!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Retail Operations in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Deputy Head of Retail Operations role. Highlight your leadership experience in fast-paced environments and any relevant achievements in retail operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've led teams, improved operational efficiency, or delivered exceptional customer service in previous positions.
Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading diverse teams, emphasise your experience in coaching and developing staff. We want to see how you’ve built strong, engaged teams in your past roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Etihad Stadium!
How to prepare for a job interview at Eastlands Venue Services Limited
✨Know Your Match Day Operations
Familiarise yourself with the specific match day operations at the Etihad Stadium. Understand the flow of service, key roles, and how to manage high-volume environments effectively. This will show your potential employer that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in fast-paced settings. Be ready to discuss your approach to coaching and developing staff, as well as how you handle challenges during live events. This role is all about leadership, so make sure to highlight your experience.
✨Showcase Your Operational Knowledge
Brush up on food safety, health & safety regulations, and operational best practices. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance and maintain high standards across retail areas. This knowledge will be crucial for the role and will impress your interviewers.
✨Be Ready for Cross-Team Collaboration
Think about how you’ve worked with other departments in the past, like logistics or finance. Prepare to share examples of successful collaborations and how they contributed to operational success. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively within a complex environment.
