At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead premium guest experiences at high-speed sailing events and ensure flawless operations.
- Company: Join SailGP, the world’s most exciting on-water racing league with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for travel and growth.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusivity while making a real impact in the sports industry.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team delivering unforgettable experiences at iconic global events.
- Qualifications: Experience in live event operations and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About SailGP is the world’s most exciting racing on-water. The annual, global championship – established in 2018 and now in its fourth season – features national teams battling in short, intense races at iconic stadium-style venues across the globe. The high‑tech, high‑speed action features sailing's best athletes racing in identical hydrofoiling F50 catamarans, flying at speeds approaching 100 km/h who compete for the sport's top prize money, with US$4.3 million at stake over the season. SailGP also races for a better future, championing a world powered by nature. In 2020, SailGP set a new standard as the first climate positive sports and entertainment property and began delivering actions and innovations that advance the global adoption of clean energy. Underpinning the organization’s purpose‑driven agenda is a diversification of the league, with the goal of immediately progressing gender and racial equity and inclusivity. SailGP is a global organization with defined values that shape the culture of its diverse team: deliver quality, break boundaries, make an impact, stand together and strike a balance.
Summary The Hospitality Operations Lead is responsible for delivering world‑class premium guest experiences at SailGP events by flawlessly executing strategic and operational plans. Focusing on our high‑end Vela premium experience product, you will collaborate closely with the Experience Team to oversee this premium hospitality space across our events in the calendar. Serving as the primary onsite operational lead during event build and live days, you will coordinate seamlessly with Infrastructure, Experience and Operations teams to ensure that design, logistics and delivery meet SailGP's elite standards.
Responsibilities:
- Strategic Execution: Work closely with the Experience Team to implement and execute short, medium and long‑term strategic visions for premium guest journeys and hospitality spaces for the Vela product.
- Vela Product Operational Management: Partner with the Premium Experience Lead and the Director of Experience to design and deliver comprehensive operational plans aligned with the strategic vision for the Vela premium product and related guest groups.
- Infrastructure Collaboration: Coordinate with the Infrastructure Manager on the design of all premium and Vela spaces, ensuring that operational needs, luxury standards and guest flow are fully integrated into the builds.
- Cross‑Functional Communication: Take ownership of sharing and communicating all operational planning with the wider SailGP Operations and Experiences teams to ensure seamless alignment.
- Onsite Leadership: Act as the primary, high‑visibility onsite operational point of contact for all premium Vela hospitality spaces during event build‑up, live race days and pack down days.
Key Expectations:
- Promotes SailGP Values and contributes to a positive culture.
- Fosters a work environment where diversity is valued, respected, and celebrated through inclusive leadership.
- Develop creative solutions that allow for quality work to be delivered.
- Drive collaboration and teamwork within their team and amongst wider department recognising their personal impact and utilising this effectively.
- Promote working practices that enable a healthy work life balance within the team and celebrate wellbeing.
- Supports and displays out of the box thinking guiding this to align with SailGP's strategic objectives.
- Support teams with developmental goals and growth plans utilising a coaching mindset to enable and empower.
- Seizes opportunities to impact Better Sport, Better Planet.
- Strives for the commercial sustainability of SailGP considering this at all parts of budget management.
- Effectively presents with impact.
About You:
- Experience in live event operations, preferably in VIP or premium guest services.
- Strong project and time management skills with the ability to deliver complex plans.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder coordination across multiple teams.
- Proven ability to lead onsite operations during event build and live execution.
- Understanding of event infrastructure and space planning.
- Ability to problem solve and make decisions under pressure.
- High attention to detail and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
- Comfortable working in fast paced, high pressure environments.
- Familiarity with guest journey mapping and hospitality best practices is a plus.
Location: SailGP HQ in London, United Kingdom. Hybrid working model with a minimum of 3 days per week in the London Office. This role will have regular event travel. SailGP is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace committed to building a team culture that celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion.
Hospitality Operations Lead employer: SailGP
SailGP is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of inclusivity and innovation, making it a thrilling place to work for those passionate about hospitality and live events. With a commitment to delivering world-class experiences and a focus on employee growth, SailGP offers unique opportunities for professional development while promoting a healthy work-life balance in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Located in London, the role of Hospitality Operations Lead allows you to be at the forefront of exciting global events, contributing to a purpose-driven agenda that prioritises sustainability and diversity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hospitality Operations Lead
✨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 SailGP. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to SailGP
Don't be shy about reaching out to SailGP 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 Hospitality Operations Lead
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 SailGP 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 SailGP
✨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!
