At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering operations at UCL, ensuring top-notch food services and innovative growth.
- Company: Join Gather and Gather, a people-focused company with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days holiday, a fantastic pension scheme, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with regular social events and wellness initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in multi-site hospitality management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 52053 - 52053 £ per year.
Location: University College London, Gower street, WC1E 6BT London
Rate of Pay: £52,053.84 per annum
Working Pattern: Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week, with occasional weekends.
Key Responsibilities- To ensure the efficient and effective delivery of catering operations and designated services to the client in accordance with the contract.
- To ensure delivery of the highest possible standard of food services with the resources available and within budget.
- Effective management of the contract management team to ensure the delivery of both qualitative and quantitative results.
- Manage the Catering Operation with the available resources to achieve sales and GP targets.
- To manage and control the service offers for the client to the agreed specification and to the agreed performance.
- To actively seek and identify opportunities and innovation for business growth & development with focus on latest food trends and best practices.
- Responsible for overseeing all aspects of compliance within the contractual terms.
- Experience as a multi-site restaurant/catering/hospitality manager in high volume operations.
- Strong financial & commercial acumen - P & L accountability.
- Excellent people, communication, organisation and people management skills.
- The ability to motivate and enthuse people and teams to deliver results.
- An understanding of legislation & compliance.
- Strong leadership, coaching, performance management and people development skills.
- A hands‑on lead from the front approach with a keen eye for detail.
- Inspiring, motivating, and coaching managers to deliver the very best in food and coffee service.
- A positive and outgoing personality and outlook.
- IT literate - working with systems & process.
- Building strong, trusted partnerships with client and stakeholders.
- Acting as a vital link between site managers and functions such as HR, Accounts, and Purchasing.
- Monitoring site performance and driving continual improvements in quality and service.
- Quickly solving problems to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently.
- Drive commercial success by managing budgets, reducing costs, and improving margins.
- Identify opportunities for innovation and efficiency to elevate operational performance.
- Collaborate with senior leadership to establish financial and commercial targets.
- Oversee and analyse campus and individual financial performance against budgetary goals, addressing any variances with achievable solutions.
- Ensure comprehensive QHSS (Quality, Health, Safety, and Sustainability) management across all areas of operations to maintain the highest safety and quality standards.
- To oversee company statutory health, hygiene and safety, quality standards including COSHH and HACCP are carried out in accordance company standards.
- To oversee manager and employee completion of mandatory training.
- Ensure all outlets operate in line with company policies, health & safety regulations, and brand standards.
- Assist with the implementation of company initiatives and support the rollout of new systems, and processes.
- Conduct manager’s performance appraisals, identify training needs, and promote development opportunities.
- To maintain a professional and friendly relationship with the client and customers.
- Work with the senior team to present a united front.
- Be up to date with customer needs and food trends and communicate ideas to senior team and managers.
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.
- 27 days holiday plus Public Holidays plus your birthday off & UCL closure dates off.
- Fantastic (UCL-aligned) Pension scheme.
- Food allowance.
- Volunteering days.
- Personal Development and Training opportunities - We are passionate about our team growing with us.
- Online wellbeing centre - including access to our Employee Assistance Programme, salary, recipes, exercise, and financial advice.
- Family friendly support.
- Regular social events.
- Recognition schemes and people awards.
- Long service awards.
- High street discount vouchers.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Discount gym Membership (campus gym).
Head Of Retail - Catering (Monday - Friday) employer: Gather & Gather UK
Contact Detail:
Gather & Gather UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Retail - Catering (Monday - Friday)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the catering and hospitality industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance for an interview, be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Use specific examples that highlight your leadership, financial acumen, and ability to drive results. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
✨Tip Number 3
Research is key! Before any interview, make sure you know about the latest food trends and best practices in catering. This shows you’re not just interested in the job, but you’re also passionate about the industry. Plus, it gives you great talking points during your chat with us!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture, which will help you tailor your approach. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Retail - Catering (Monday - Friday)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Head of Retail role. Highlight your multi-site management experience and any achievements in catering or hospitality that show off your financial acumen.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about food service and how your leadership style can inspire teams. Don’t forget to mention any innovative ideas you have for business growth!
Showcase Your People Skills: We want to see how you connect with people! In your application, share examples of how you've motivated teams or built strong relationships with clients. This is key for the Head of Retail position.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at UCL. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gather & Gather UK
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Retail, you'll need to demonstrate strong financial acumen. Brush up on your P&L statements and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past. Prepare specific examples of how you’ve driven sales and improved margins in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires excellent people management skills. Think about your leadership style and prepare to share examples of how you've motivated teams and resolved conflicts. Highlight any coaching or mentoring experiences that showcase your ability to inspire others.
✨Stay Ahead of Food Trends
The catering industry is always evolving, so be prepared to discuss the latest food trends and how they can impact business growth. Research current trends and think about how you can incorporate them into the catering operations at University College London.
✨Demonstrate Compliance Knowledge
Compliance is key in this role, so brush up on relevant legislation and standards like COSHH and HACCP. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous positions and how you would approach it in this new role.