At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team and ensure exceptional dining experiences.
- Company: Join Houston & Hawkes, an award-winning independent contract caterer.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, enhanced leave, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Be part of a certified B Corp with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in corporate hospitality while celebrating great food.
- Qualifications: Experience in corporate catering and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 46000 £ per year.
Houston & Hawkes is looking for an experienced General Manager to join us at a prestigious corporate law firm in Central London. This is an exciting opportunity to take the lead at a quality-driven contract catering site where fresh, creative workplace dining sits alongside polished corporate hospitality. From the daily breakfast and lunch offer to client meetings, private dining and events, you'll ensure every service reflects the high standards and personality of Houston & Hawkes.
We're looking for someone who knows corporate catering inside out: a natural people leader, a trusted partner to the client and a commercially confident manager who cares about great food, exceptional service and the details that make a workplace feel special.
THE ROLE
- Take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of a small corporate catering contract, across retail dining and hospitality.
- Lead, motivate and develop the team, creating a positive working culture and consistently high standards.
- Build a strong working relationship with the client, understanding their priorities and delivering a responsive, professional service.
- Work closely with the chef team to champion fresh, seasonal menus, engaging food displays and an excellent everyday dining experience.
- Oversee the delivery of meetings, client lunches and events, ensuring every detail is carefully managed.
- Manage budgets, labour, purchasing, stock and financial performance, with a clear focus on quality and value.
- Maintain high standards of food safety, allergen management, health and safety and operational compliance.
- Bring fresh ideas and a proactive approach to continually improving the offer and the experience for everyone on site.
ABOUT YOU
- An experienced General Manager or Catering Manager with a strong background in corporate contract catering.
- Confident managing both a workplace retail offer and high-quality corporate hospitality.
- Experience working in a law firm, financial services or another professional workplace would be an advantage.
- A genuine passion for food, presentation and delivering thoughtful, personal service.
- A hands-on and inspiring leader who enjoys developing people and building strong teams.
- Commercially aware, organised and confident managing client relationships and financial targets.
- Professional, approachable and comfortable taking ownership of a premium contract.
OUR BENEFITS - THE HOUSTON & HAWKES WAY
We know that our people make the difference. That's why we offer more than a job: a welcoming, ambitious independent business where your contribution is valued, your ideas are heard and there's always something worth celebrating.
- Your birthday off - a little extra time to celebrate your day
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Free, freshly prepared meals while on duty
- Contributory pension scheme and life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme - confidential support whenever you need it
- CODE Hospitality membership - access to a fantastic hospitality community and member benefits
- Foodie Socials - time to discover great food, exchange ideas and connect with colleagues who share your passion
- Learning and development - opportunities to build your skills and progress within a growing independent business
- Our Summer Awards Party - a special celebration of the people and achievements that make Houston & Hawkes what it is
- Our Christmas Party - a fantastic end-of-year celebration at an outstanding London venue, bringing our teams together in true Houston & Hawkes style
ABOUT HOUSTON & HAWKES
Houston & Hawkes is an award-winning independent contract caterer with a simple belief: workplace food should be something people genuinely look forward to. We bring fresh ideas, outstanding ingredients and a personal approach to the everyday dining and hospitality experiences we create for some of the UK's most prestigious workplaces.
We're proud to be a Certified B Corp, a recipient of the King's Award for Enterprise and recognised among The Caterer's Best Places to Work in Hospitality. We've built our reputation on exceptional food, brilliant people and partnerships that feel genuinely personal.
General Catering Manager - Monday to Friday in London employer: Houston & Hawkes
Houston & Hawkes is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Central London where creativity and passion for food thrive. Employees benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, competitive remuneration, and a supportive team environment that values exceptional customer service and innovation. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that takes pride in delivering premium experiences while enjoying the unique advantages of working in one of the world's most exciting cities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Catering Manager - Monday to Friday in 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 Houston & Hawkes. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Houston & Hawkes
Don't be shy about reaching out to Houston & Hawkes 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 Catering Manager - Monday to Friday in 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 Houston & Hawkes 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 Houston & Hawkes
✨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!
