At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering and hospitality services, ensuring high standards and customer satisfaction.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK & Ireland, supporting military and secure environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, onsite parking, healthcare benefits, and discounts on travel and entertainment.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and wellness programmes available.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on leadership role within a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 31000 £ per year.
Location: Lichfield
Salary: Up to 31,000 Per Annum
Hours: 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday with occasional weekend functions)
Overview
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Mess Manager to lead the catering, hospitality, and soft FM services across a Mess at DMS Whittington. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for the smooth day-to-day running of Mess operations, ensuring high standards of service, compliance, and customer experience within a Defence environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all Mess operations, including catering, hospitality, and front-of-house services
- Oversee day-to-day soft FM service delivery, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency
- Act as the primary point of contact for the client, building strong relationships and ensuring expectations are met
- Deliver high standards across daily Mess services, functions, and events
- Manage and respond to client feedback and satisfaction surveys, driving continuous improvement
- Ensure Mess facilities are well promoted, creating a welcoming and professional environment
- Identify opportunities to enhance service delivery and increase revenue
- Take full ownership of budget management, including cost control, sales monitoring, and financial reporting
- Plan and manage staff rotas and resources in line with business needs
- Ensure clear communication across departments to support seamless event and service delivery
- Maintain compliance with health & safety, food safety, and Defence standards
About You
- Proven experience as a Mess Manager, Hospitality Manager, or similar leadership role within catering or Defence environments
- Strong understanding of Mess operations, service standards, and customer expectations
- Commercially aware with experience in budget and cost management
- Excellent leadership and people management skills
- Strong communicator with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels
- Highly organised with strong administrative and operational skills
- Confident using IT systems and hospitality platforms
- Positive, proactive attitude with a focus on service excellence and attention to detail
About Us
Part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, ESS supports over 250 military establishments, government sites, and secure environments. We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding service in critical environments where reliability and professionalism are essential.
What We Offer
- Free meals on duty
- Free onsite parking
- Contributory pension scheme
- Career development through Career Pathways & MyLearning programmes
- Digital GP access and healthcare benefits
- Discounts across travel, retail, and entertainment
- Wellness, mindfulness, and fitness programmes
- Access to a wide range of employee rewards and discounts
Mess Manager - Lichfield employer: ESS
At Compass Group UK & Ireland, we are committed to fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment for our Mess Manager in Lichfield. With a focus on employee growth through tailored development programmes, competitive benefits including free meals and onsite parking, and a culture that prioritises service excellence, we ensure our team members thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact in the Defence sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mess Manager - Lichfield
✨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 ESS. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to ESS
Don't be shy about reaching out to ESS 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 Mess Manager - Lichfield
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 ESS 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 ESS
✨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!
