At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage all banquet and event operations for unforgettable experiences.
- Company: Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere - a luxury destination in the beautiful Cheshire countryside.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, exclusive discounts, 28 days holiday, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a unique culture with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and create memorable events in a stunning luxury setting.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in a managerial role, preferably in luxury hospitality.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Location
On-site in Knutsford, Cheshire, North-West England (not remote)
Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is a luxury destination in the Cheshire countryside.
It offers world‑class spa experiences, exceptional dining, and outstanding leisure facilities with a focus on 5‑star luxury hospitality.
Your purpose will be
The Meetings and Events Operations Manager oversees all banquet, event, and conference operations, ensuring exceptional service, adherence to brand standards, and strong departmental performance.
Working closely with Sales, Culinary, Food & Beverage, and Maintenance teams, this role ensures seamless planning, coordination, and delivery of memorable events.
The position leads and develops the banqueting team, driving service excellence, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities include financial oversight, inventory control, and effective resource management to maximise revenue and guest satisfaction.
Job Description
- Lead all Banqueting food and beverage operations, ensuring flawless service and alignment with Fairmont standards.
- Develop and maintain departmental SOPs to ensure consistency, efficiency, and exceptional guest experiences.
- Oversee daily operations with strong floor presence, supporting colleagues and engaging with guests and members.
- Create effective staffing schedules that balance business needs, colleague wellbeing, and financial targets.
- Recruit, train, and develop a talented Banqueting team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous growth.
- Manage stock, costs, and revenue performance to achieve departmental financial objectives.
- Review products, services, and guest feedback to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
- Monitor industry trends and competitor activity to inform departmental strategy.
- Support forecasting, payroll planning, and financial reporting in line with hotel standards.
- Ensure full compliance with health, safety, hygiene, and statutory requirements, including risk assessments and fire procedures.
- Maintain a safe, immaculate, and well‑presented environment across all Banqueting areas.
- Lead by example, nurturing a strong team spirit and upholding Fairmont values in all interactions.
- Proven experience in a Managerial role, ideally within a luxury or high‑volume environment.
- Qualification in Hospitality Management/Food & Beverage preferred.
- Additional certification(s) in Food & Beverage will be an advantage.
- Experienced in all aspects of restaurant and banquet service.
- Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in a similar capacity with proven records in delivering results.
- Excellent reading, writing and oral proficiency in English language.
Please note that we believe in flexibility and multi‑skilling, and you may be asked to do different tasks from time to time to enable us to meet the needs of our guests and colleagues.
Qualifications
- Proven experience in a Managerial role, ideally within a luxury or high‑volume environment.
- Qualification in Hospitality Management/Food & Beverage preferred.
- Additional certification(s) in Food & Beverage will be an advantage.
- Experienced in all aspects of restaurant and banquet service.
- Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in a similar capacity with proven records in delivering results.
- Excellent reading, writing and oral proficiency in English language.
- Additional Information
• Exclusive Discounts
- Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, Spa and Golf discount
- Fairmont, Raffles, and Accor Hotels (friends and family rates are included)
- 20% off food and beverage in on‑site restaurants
- Colleague restaurant
• Being part of The Mere Team – our culture is unique!
- You will benefit from training and development opportunities
- Competitive salary and benefits including pension
- 28 days of holiday including public holidays
- 1-5 days service award based on length of service
- Special rates for Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere colleagues and their friends & family and discount across Accor hotels worldwide
- And last but not least you will get to work with a team of extraordinary people
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Meetings and Events Operations Manager in Knutsford
✨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 FAIRMONT. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to FAIRMONT
Don't be shy about reaching out to FAIRMONT 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 Meetings and Events Operations Manager in Knutsford
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 FAIRMONT 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 FAIRMONT
✨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!
