Duty Manager - GRIND | National Theatre

NT Food & Drink is a unique and dynamic partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition to create a world‑class hospitality destination at the heart of the world's most iconic theatre is powered by our progressive people‑first approach, centred on environmental and social sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity with purpose, putting the development and progression of our future leaders centre stage. Our shared goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the NT's overall values, vision, and culture.

Are you ready to lead an exciting, high‑energy hospitality experience on London’s iconic Southbank? We’re looking for a dynamic Duty Manager to be a key front‑of‑house leader for our GRIND concession. Grind has brought its punchy coffee to National Theatre. Whether customers are fueling up before a matinee or winding down after an evening performance, they can grab their favourite flat white or espresso martini right in the heart of London’s creative scene. This spot blends Grind’s unmistakable aesthetic with the National Theatre’s cultural energy – delivering ethically sourced coffee, sustainably designed packaging, and a playlist that sets the tone from curtain up to final bow.

As Duty Manager, you’ll be at the heart of the action, leading, motivating, and supporting our team to deliver a world‑class hospitality experience. You’ll oversee daily operations, assist Team Leaders when needed, and ensure seamless coordination with the wider venue. If you thrive in fast‑paced environments, love hospitality, and want to be part of an iconic venue, we’d love to hear from you!

Responsibilities

• Lead & Inspire: Brief, motivate, and guide team leaders and Customer Service Assistants (CSAs) to achieve daily financial targets, KPIs, and uphold our exceptional service standards.
• Deliver an Outstanding Guest Experience: Keep the customer journey at the heart of everything, identifying opportunities to enhance service and acting on feedback.
• Maintain Excellence in Operations: Ensure food and drink offerings are well‑stocked, beautifully presented, and consistently delivered with quality in mind.
• Optimize Performance & Efficiency: Monitor and maintain systems and equipment, report any issues, and follow up on maintenance to keep everything running smoothly.
• Drive Success & Team Growth: Support staff development through inductions, training, and 1‑2‑1 meetings, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to succeed.
• Ensure Compliance & Safety: Uphold all food safety, health & safety policies, and incident reporting procedures to create a safe and efficient work environment.

Requirements

• A natural leader – you lead by example and are always present on the floor with your team.
• Passion for exceptional service – you’ll ensure every guest has an unforgettable experience.
• Flexibility – evenings, weekends, and bank holidays are all part of the excitement!
• At least 2 years’ experience in a similar role, ready to hit the ground running.
• Strong communication skills – both written and verbal.
• Previous experience in a high‑volume single or multi‑venue hospitality or leisure setting.
• Knowledge of EPOS and procurement systems (Desirable).
• Awareness of COSHH & Level 3 Food Hygiene (Desirable).
• Personal Licence (Desirable).

Benefits

• Healthcare & Wellbeing – Medicash health benefits (including dental, mental health & optical for you and up to 4 children), free annual health check with Aviva Digicare, discounts at Nuffield Health & Pure Gym, and access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
• Exclusive Perks & Discounts – Save on entertainment (up to 55% off cinema tickets), shopping (up to 15% off), Vodafone plans, and travel with top providers such as TUI & Expedia.
• Workplace Benefits – Meals on duty, pension scheme, life assurance, and professional subscriptions paid.
• Leave & Family Support – 23 days + bank holidays, your birthday off, extra leave after maternity return, a day off for your baby’s 1st birthday, and a holiday purchase scheme.
• Career & Financial Support – Ongoing training & development, career pathways, financial wellbeing programme, and preferred rates on salary finance products.
• Exclusive National Theatre discounts (15% off outlets, 25% off Bookshop, complimentary show tickets).
• Food & drink discounts (Kerb Card: 20% off drinks, 50% off food at Seven Dials Market).
• VIP last‑minute O2 show tickets (subject to availability).
• Discounted onsite parking (£4/day).

Who are Levy?

Levy, part of Compass Group, known for delivering exceptional food, drink, and hospitality experiences at world‑renowned venues such as Wimbledon, Twickenham, and Tottenham Hotspur. Focused on sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, Levy prides itself on using sustainably sourced ingredients and providing outstanding service. The company is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2027, partnering with the British Paralympic Association, and ensuring all team members earn at least the Real Living Wage or London Living Wage.

Why Join Us?

At Levy UK & Ireland, we celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, valuing every individual’s unique strengths. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and success. We promote fairness, ensure all voices are heard, and provide equal opportunities for all. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, equitable workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute. Together, we achieve greatness.