At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering operations and enhance student life at the University of London.
- Company: Gather & Gather, a dynamic hospitality provider focused on community and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, personal development, healthcare support, and holiday perks.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant workplace with regular social events and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the student experience and lead a talented team in a prestigious environment.
- Qualifications: Senior management experience in hospitality and strong people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Gather & Gather Stadia, we specialise in hospitality for community-focused sports venues, delivering locally inspired, high-quality food and drink that elevates both the fan and guest experience and drives lasting impact. We take a boutique approach: combining personalised service, strong local partnerships and menus built around fresh, locally sourced ingredients that reflect the unique character of every stadium and its community.
We are looking for a General Manager to join our team at the University of London.
Location: University of London, Central London - 5 campuses across Bloomsbury area
Salary: £48,000 - £50,000 per annum
Working Pattern: 40 hours per week, predominantly Monday - Friday; however, you will need to work around 10 weekends a year to view service and site inspections.
Shift Patterns: Will vary as we run 14 services a week across breakfast through to dinner, so there will be a mix of early, mid and afternoon shifts required.
Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for hospitality, operational excellence, and student experience? We are seeking a General Manager to oversee our multi-site Halls of Residence at the University of London. In this role, you will lead catering operations, residential services, and student engagement initiatives, ensuring top-quality food, service, and compliance across all sites. You will work closely with our executive chef, unit managers, and university partners to drive innovation, efficiency, and a first-class student experience.
What you’ll do:
- Lead and develop multi-site catering and residential operations.
- Manage budgets, P&L, procurement, labour, and waste to deliver financial targets.
- Deliver themed events, pop-ups, and initiatives to enhance student life.
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, health & safety, and governance standards.
- Build strong relationships with university stakeholders, driving service excellence and operational alignment.
- Recruit, coach, and develop high-performing teams.
What we’re looking for:
- Senior management experience in contract catering, multi-site operations, or hospitality, ability to manage teams of 70+.
- Proven P&L accountability and operational leadership on contracts over £4 million.
- Strong student-focused mindset, with excellent people and stakeholder management skills.
Why join us: This is your chance to shape the student experience, lead a talented team, and make a tangible impact on service delivery and engagement at a prestigious university.
What’s in it for you? Working with Gather and Gather has its perks! People are at the heart of everything we do, so we’ve developed a range of benefits to keep you happy.
- Personal Development and Training opportunities
- Life assurance scheme
- Pension scheme
- Holiday allowance plus an additional allowance when working in universities!
- Access to Healthcare Support App which includes Annual health check, Digital GP, Mental Health Consultations, Nutritional Consultations, Second Medical Opinion, Eye care
- A great wellbeing strategy - including access to our Employee Assistance Programme, salary finance
- Family friendly support
- Regular social events and communication with our leaders
- A holiday purchase scheme
- Volunteering days
- Professional subscriptions
- Recognition schemes and people awards
- Long service awards
- Access to some great high street discount vouchers
General Manager - London employer: ESS
As a Catering Assistant, you'll join a vibrant team dedicated to creating a positive and friendly atmosphere. The company prioritises employee growth and recognition, offering a supportive environment where your contributions are valued. With a commitment to high-quality service and a focus on individual development, this role provides an excellent opportunity for those seeking meaningful employment in a dynamic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager - London
✨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 General Manager - London
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!
