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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily lunch services and manage hospitality for school events.
- Company: Join a prestigious independent school in West London, known for its vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to work in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team delivering exceptional food experiences for students and staff.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering management and strong leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in fast-paced, high-volume settings.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 44000 £ per year.
Off to Work is delighted to be supporting our client, a leading independent school in West London, in the recruitment of an experienced Catering & Hospitality Manager. This is an exciting opportunity for a hospitality professional who thrives in a high-volume, quality-focused environment and enjoys being part of a dynamic school community.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Catering & Hospitality and working closely with the Executive Head Chef, the Catering & Hospitality Manager will take a hands-on leadership role in delivering first-class daily lunch and hospitality services for approximately 1200 diners, including students and staff. This varied position combines daily operational oversight of the lunch service with responsibility for a broad hospitality remit, including internal events, receptions, performances, and occasional dinners.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the daily lunch service, ensuring seamless operation across counters, dining areas, and plate-wash teams.
- Oversee the café operation, including staffing, pricing, marketing, and cash handling.
- Plan & deliver hospitality for school functions and events.
- Support seasonal operations for Easter and Summer programmes.
- Manage and develop front-of-house teams, promoting high standards of service.
- Collaborate with the Executive Head Chef on menu briefings, event planning, and service innovation.
About You
You will be an organised, enthusiastic, and highly motivated individual with excellent leadership and customer service skills. You will be proactive, hands-on, and enjoy delivering great food and hospitality experiences in a busy, fast-paced setting.
Key Requirements:
- Previous experience in catering & hospitality management, within contract catering or high-volume environments.
- Strong team leadership with a hands-on, approachable style.
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability.
- Solid understanding of financial processes, stock control, and basic budgeting.
- Good knowledge of food safety, health & safety, and compliance standards.
- Experience working within an education setting and safeguarding awareness (desirable).
- Flexible, calm under pressure, and able to lead by example in a fast-paced, client-facing environment.
Catering & Hospitality Manager employer: Off To Work
Contact Detail:
Off To Work Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering & Hospitality Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the catering and hospitality industry, especially those who have experience in educational settings. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs and culture of independent schools. Research the school you’re applying to and understand their values, as this will help you tailor your approach during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in high-pressure environments. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your ability to maintain high standards of service.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of food safety and compliance standards during discussions. Being knowledgeable about these areas is crucial in a school setting, so be ready to explain how you’ve implemented these practices in previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering & Hospitality Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in catering and hospitality management. Focus on your leadership roles, operational oversight, and any experience in high-volume environments, as these are key for the position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and events in the past, and express your enthusiasm for working in a school environment.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, emphasise your organisational skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. These traits are crucial for managing daily operations and ensuring high standards of service.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications: If you have any certifications related to food safety, health and safety, or hospitality management, be sure to include them in your application. This will demonstrate your commitment to compliance and quality standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at Off To Work
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Catering & Hospitality Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in high-pressure environments, focusing on your hands-on approach and ability to motivate staff.
✨Highlight Your Experience in High-Volume Settings
Make sure to discuss your previous experience in catering and hospitality management, particularly in high-volume settings. Share specific instances where you managed large events or services, detailing the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Emphasise Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is crucial in this role. Be ready to talk about how you ensure quality and compliance in food safety and health standards. Providing examples of how you've implemented processes to maintain high standards will impress your interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle pressure. Think of situations where you had to make quick decisions during busy service times and how you ensured customer satisfaction despite challenges.
