At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape F&B operations across 38 seaside parks, driving excellence and strategy.
- Company: Join Haven, a forward-thinking community focused on memorable guest experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, annual bonus, discounts, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are central to our mission; we welcome all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-profile leadership role with board-level visibility.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in Food & Beverage operations and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 90000 £ per year.
Head of Food & Beverage Operations Field Based (regular travel to our parks and Hemel Hempstead HQ) Permanent Full Time Annual salary + bonus and benefits
About the role Are you a senior Food & Beverage operator ready to take the next step into a role with genuine board-level visibility?
If so, we want to hear from you.
Haven is looking for a Head of Food & Beverage Operations to act as Deputy to the F&B Director and shape the future of F&B across our 38 seaside parks.
This is a high-profile leadership role, sitting at the centre of a multi-brand, multi-site F&B operation.
You'll lead a team of F&B Operational Support Managers and Franchise & New Openings Support Managers, ensuring park teams have the insight, tools and partnership they need to deliver against their Balanced Scorecard targets.
You'll also be a trusted voice in the room with our senior leadership and Board, presenting performance, shaping strategy and championing operational excellence across both Haven's own brands and our franchise partnerships.
We're looking for a proven senior leader, someone who has held multiple senior operational roles within Food & Beverage and is confident operating at pace, at scale, and in front of a Board.
If you thrive on turning strategy into commercial results and want your next role to matter, this one will.
- Your Opportunity
- Act as Deputy to the F&B Director, deputising at senior leadership and Board-level forums with confidence and credibility
- Serve as the core operational and franchise specialist, building strong strategic relationships with park F&B leadership and franchise partners
- Lead the planning and execution of pre-park opening, in-season operational, and closure plans across Haven and Franchise operations, ensuring consistent SOPs and safe systems
- Champion operational excellence driving efficiency, margin performance, best-practice sharing and robust reporting against the Balanced Scorecard
- Partner with Finance, Digital, EPOS, H&S and Capital Development to embed operating models and enable franchise growth
- Lead, coach and develop the F&B Operational Support Managers and Franchise & New Openings Support Managers, raising the bar on business partnering across parks
- Represent F&B Operations at Board and Executive forums, presenting performance, risks, opportunities and strategic recommendations
- Drive the successful launch and integration of new F&B propositions, franchise concepts and openings
- What we'd like you to bring
- A track record built across multiple senior leadership roles in Food & Beverage operations
- Deep experience across QSR, Fast Casual and Casual Dining models, including franchise operations and complex multi-site environments
- Confident, credible communicator with proven experience presenting to Boards and executive audiences
- Strategic and commercially sharp, with advanced P&L, margin and performance management capability
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to turn data and insight into clear operational action
- Demonstrable experience in leadership, coaching, change management and performance management
- Comfortable operating under pressure with excellent time and project management discipline
- A natural relationship builder, able to influence and align stakeholders at every level, from park teams to the Board
Why Haven?
You'll be part of a forward-thinking, supportive community where ideas are valued, learning is encouraged, and the network you build will power memorable guest experiences for millions every year.
At Haven, we're one great team, united by our passion for creating amazing experiences for our guests and our people.
You'll have access to training, mentoring, and opportunities to grow your career in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.
What's In It For You?
- 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays + Holiday Buy Scheme
- Annual bonus
- 20% discount on both Haven and Warner Hotels holiday for you, family and friends
- Comprehensive wellbeing support
- Exclusive discounts with corporate partners
- Exciting career pathways, including Learning and Development opportunities such as Apprenticeships and Degrees
- Enhanced family friendly policies and pay (eligibility criteria applied)
- Equal Opportunity Statement
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of who we are and what we do.
Our commitment to these values is unwavering and they are central to our mission.
We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries and we are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments or flexibility that you may require, including whether a role can be part-time or a job-share.
Head of Food and Beverage Operations in Hemel Hempstead employer: Leisure Employment Services
Leisure Employment Services is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment where team members can thrive while ensuring guest safety and satisfaction. With opportunities for training and development, as well as exclusive perks like discounts on dining and holidays, employees can enjoy a rewarding experience in a vibrant holiday park setting in the UK.
Contact Details:
Leisure Employment Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Food and Beverage Operations in Hemel Hempstead
✨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 Leisure Employment Services. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Leisure Employment Services
Don't be shy about reaching out to Leisure Employment Services 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 Head of Food and Beverage Operations in Hemel Hempstead
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 Leisure Employment Services 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 Leisure Employment Services
✨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!
