At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering and events operation with hands-on involvement.
- Company: Exciting corporate site in South London/North Kent with a vibrant atmosphere.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with varied responsibilities and excellent career prospects.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of exciting events and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in contract catering and strong hospitality skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 € per year.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a hands-on Catering & Events General Manager to lead a high-profile corporate site in South London/North Kent. This is the number one role on site with full ownership of the operation but it’s very much a lead from the front position. This is not a role for someone who wants to stay in the office. We’re looking for a GM who is just as comfortable serving on the deli, making coffees, or supporting service as they are planning events, managing the client relationship, and leading the team.
The site blends a strong daily catering offer with a busy and evolving events programme, alongside regular one-off and bespoke requests. It’s an agile, fast-moving environment that suits someone who enjoys variety and can adapt quickly.
Key Responsibilities- Full ownership of the on-site catering and events operation
- Leading a predominantly Monday-Friday business, with flexibility required around events and client needs
- Actively supporting day-to-day service when required, including front-of-house and coffee service
- Managing labour effectively, particularly during quieter periods where a hands-on approach is essential
- Overseeing a staff dining offer alongside a busy hospitality and events calendar
- Acting as the key contact for senior stakeholders, visitors, and VIP guests
- Driving standards, service consistency, and continuous improvement across the site
While this is a corporate environment, it is not a traditional 9-5, Monday-Friday site. The client operates across international time zones, so flexibility is essential. There will be occasions where night service is required. At times, the operation may run later into the evening (e.g. up to 11pm) to support EU stakeholders. The role includes a strong events focus, with frequent changes, last-minute requests, and bespoke requirements. This is a role for someone who is adaptable, solutions-focused, and happy to go with the flow.
About You- Proven experience within contract catering in Venues, Events, Stadia, Retail or corporate catering sector is essential
- Strong background in hospitality and events delivery
- A genuinely hands-on leader happy to step into any part of the operation when needed
- Commercially aware, with the ability to manage labour and costs effectively
- Confident working with senior stakeholders and managing expectations
- Calm under pressure
Catering and Events General Manager employer: Off to Work
Join a dynamic and innovative team as a Catering & Events General Manager in South London, where you will have the opportunity to lead a high-profile corporate site with full operational ownership. Our company fosters a vibrant work culture that values hands-on leadership and adaptability, offering competitive salaries and opportunities for professional growth in a fast-paced environment. With a focus on employee development and a commitment to excellence in service delivery, we provide a unique platform for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the catering and events industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering and Events General Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the catering and events industry. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to potential employers directly. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on experience! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers, share specific examples of how you've led teams or tackled challenges in fast-paced environments. They want to see that you can roll up your sleeves and get stuck in!
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and adaptable! Since this role requires a lot of juggling between catering and events, highlight your ability to switch gears quickly. Share stories that demonstrate your agility in handling last-minute requests or changes in plans.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm. Plus, it gives us a chance to see your application in the best light. Don’t miss out on your dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering and Events General Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Hands-On Experience:Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience in catering and events. We want to see how you've rolled up your sleeves in previous roles, whether it's serving customers or managing events. This will show us you're the type of GM who leads from the front!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match our job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background with what we’re looking for.
Be Flexible and Adaptable:Since this role requires flexibility, make sure to mention any experiences where you’ve had to adapt quickly to changing situations. We want to know you can handle the fast-paced environment and last-minute requests with ease!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Off to Work
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of a Catering & Events General Manager. Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description, like managing client relationships and leading a team. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Show Off Your Hands-On Experience
Since this role requires a hands-on approach, be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've jumped in to support service or manage events. Highlight times when you’ve adapted quickly to changing situations or tackled last-minute requests, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Flexibility is Key
Given the nature of the role, it’s important to convey your flexibility and willingness to work outside traditional hours. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve managed similar demands in previous roles and how you can handle the fast-paced environment they’re looking for.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
As a GM, you'll be the key contact for senior stakeholders. During the interview, demonstrate your confidence in managing expectations and building relationships. Share examples of how you've successfully interacted with clients or VIP guests in the past, showcasing your communication skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.
