Campus Catering Operations Lead in Preston

When you work for the University of Lancashire, you’ll be part of a thriving community of talent that’s united in a common commitment to transform lives. We do this by delivering an outstanding educational experience and creating prosperity and opportunity in the communities we serve. Whatever your role, you’ll be playing a vital part in helping us achieve our vision.

Are you passionate about delivering great food, great service, and a great experience? Our Catering Services team is looking for an enthusiastic Assistant Retail Services Manager to help lead the day‑to‑day operations across our vibrant retail catering outlets, including cafés, restaurants, grab‑and‑go stations, and vending services. This is an exciting opportunity to support a busy, diverse, and student‑focused environment where no two days are the same!

About the role:

As Assistant Retail Services Manager, you’ll work closely with the Retail Services Manager to ensure our outlets run smoothly, efficiently, and to the highest standard. You’ll play a key part in:

• Leading and developing Team Leaders and Catering Assistants
• Delivering excellent customer service and a welcoming experience
• Supporting operational planning, performance monitoring, and service improvements
• Managing stock, suppliers, and cost‑control processes
• Ensuring compliance with food safety, allergen, and health & safety legislation
• Assisting with menu development, promotions, and university events
• Championing sustainability and responsible sourcing
• Deputising for the Retail Services Manager when required

This role offers a fantastic blend of hands‑on operations, team leadership, and opportunities to influence the future of campus retail catering.

About you:

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about hospitality and thrives in a fast‑paced environment. You’ll bring:

• Proven experience managing or supervising in a catering or retail setting
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a diverse team
• Excellent communication and customer‑service skills
• A good understanding of food hygiene, allergens, and health & safety regulations
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise effectively
• A‑Levels or an equivalent Level 3 qualification
• Flexibility to support evening and weekend operations when required
• Confidence in barista skills, including producing high‑quality coffee drinks

What we can offer you:

We have a fantastic package of rewards and lifestyle benefits – from an attractive annual leave entitlement to access to a comprehensive employee benefits platform which includes a 24/7 online GP. Our people are our most important asset. We’ll encourage you to make the most of your talents and continually develop your skills and knowledge. As well as realising your career ambitions, you’ll be making a positive difference to other people’s lives.

About us:

We are proud to be a diverse, multicultural university. We are committed to building a truly inclusive culture where diversity is championed. Applications are particularly welcomed from individuals who will support the diversification within the University and support its development of a culture that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

The University is committed to providing a safe environment to study, work and visit, protecting children, young people and adults at risk from harm and abuse. Our safeguarding policy and safer recruitment procedure outlines our approach, alongside other internal policies, procedures and guidance which can be found on our Safeguarding page.

Applicants applying for roles in regulated activity and that are listed as an exception under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 will be required to disclose any spent and unspent convictions and undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check at the appropriate level, the University will only ask an applicant to make an application for a DBS check if they are legally entitled to.