At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant team and ensure smooth operations in student accommodation.
- Company: Join iQ, one of the UK's largest student accommodation providers.
- Benefits: Enjoy great perks and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with varied shifts and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while building your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in team management and a passion for people.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Doing the right thing, even when nobody’s watching? It’s an iQ thing. iQ is one of the UK's biggest providers of student accommodation, committed to giving over 37,000 students in 86 sites across 29 UK cities their ‘Best Year Yet’. Our site teams are made up of supportive, driven, hands-on people who love providing our residents with a home from home.
As a General Manager (GM), you take the lead of our busy buildings. You’re responsible for making sure everything runs smoothly day to day while creating a safe, welcoming environment for residents and a positive, high-performing environment for the team. You balance operational excellence with commercial performance, keeping the building safe and compliant, shaping the resident experience, and driving results through strong decision-making. With the site balanced scorecard as your guide, you spot opportunities, remove barriers, and drive continual improvement, all while pushing your site towards being fully leased and achieving a ‘Full House’. You’re comfortable switching between big-picture planning and hands-on support, doing whatever’s needed to keep things running like clockwork. You won’t be doing it alone; we’ll give you the tools, training and support you need to grow, so you can be the best you can be here at iQ. No two days are ever the same and that’s all part of the excitement!
What you’ll be doing:
- Managing budgets, reviewing financial processes and collaborating with Credit Control
- Monitoring performance, analysing market trends and maintaining university partner relationships
- Driving NPS, Google reviews and converting opportunities
- Recruiting, onboarding, developing and coaching the team to ensure they are fully equipped to deliver the best customer service across hours of operation
- Running regular check-ins, performance reviews, and coaching sessions with the team
- Taking ownership of all health & safety responsibilities and coordinating audits, inspections, compliance actions, risk assessments, and incident reporting
- Reviewing feedback, resolving complaints and being the main point of escalation resolution at site
- Always looking for opportunities to improve the site operation and challenging the status quo
- Liaising with contractors and support teams ensuring a #NoCompromise approach is adopted
- Owning the site balanced scorecard, tracking KPIs, monitoring satisfaction scores and driving improvements
What makes a great iQer:
First and foremost, we’re looking for an enthusiastic leader who thrives in a get-stuff-done kind of environment. You won’t mind rolling your sleeves up, leading a team and being a great communicator. You’ll have some team/building management experience, but that could be in a hotel, gym or restaurant for example; however, we’re much more interested in your people skills, personality and drive to succeed.
Working hours:
Our residents come first, so rotas are designed around their needs. You’ll work opposite shifts to the Assistant Manager. You’re responsible for building the rota for the full team and publishing it at least six weeks in advance. Shifts may vary across a six-week pattern, and you’ll work within our site hours of 8am–8pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend work agreed in advance for busy periods or open days.
What you’ll get:
In exchange, you’ll receive great benefits, and the opportunity to work as part of a supportive team in a business that’s definitely going places. Working at iQ is so much more than a job; it’s the chance to carve out your future and build a career in a truly diverse environment. Ready to feel like you’ve got the best job ever? Apply today!
Cluster General Manager in Kingston upon Thames employer: iQ Student Accommodation
iQ is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can truly make a difference in the lives of students. With a strong focus on employee development, you'll receive comprehensive training and support to help you excel in your role as Cluster General Manager. Our inclusive culture fosters collaboration and innovation, ensuring that every day brings new opportunities for growth and success in a vibrant setting dedicated to providing the best student experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cluster General Manager in Kingston upon Thames
✨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 iQ Student Accommodation. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to iQ Student Accommodation
Don't be shy about reaching out to iQ Student Accommodation 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 Cluster General Manager in Kingston upon Thames
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 iQ Student Accommodation 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 iQ Student Accommodation
✨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!
