Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering operations and manage events at the iconic Swanage Railway.
- Company: Join Swanage Railway Co. Ltd., a heritage railway dedicated to delivering memorable visitor experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy potential railway travel concessions and a defined contribution pension scheme.
- Why this job: Shape unique visitor experiences while working in a vibrant, historical setting with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering or hospitality management, strong leadership skills, and food hygiene certification required.
- Other info: Flexibility to work weekends and holidays is essential; applications close on 8th August 2025.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We are seeking a proactive and organised Catering and Events Manager to lead our catering operations and events delivery across the Swanage Railway. This role is crucial in shaping visitor experiences, balancing commercial outcomes with our heritage setting, and coordinating both staff and volunteers.
You will lead a variety of events and seasonal activities, manage catering outlets, and ensure excellent service standards in a dynamic heritage railway environment.
Key Responsibilities
Manage all catering operations across multiple sites
Plan and deliver high-quality public and private events
Recruit, train, and manage catering staff and volunteers
Ensure compliance with food hygiene, licensing, and H&S standards
Work collaboratively with internal departments and external suppliers
Deliver services in line with Swanage Railway’s customer service values and historic character
Essential Requirements
Proven experience in catering or hospitality management (ideally in events or visitor attractions)
Strong leadership, organisational, and customer service skills
Knowledge of food hygiene, health & safety, and licensing compliance
Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed
Excellent communication skills and ability to lead a diverse team
Desirable
Event planning/delivery experience (especially family or seasonal events)
Experience working in the tourism, heritage, or not-for-profit sector
Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above)
First Aid certification
Experience working with or managing volunteers
Additional Information
Pension: Defined contribution scheme (NEST)
Staff Benefits: Potential eligibility for railway travel concessions (subject to ATOC rules and length of service)
Safeguarding: All staff are expected to uphold Swanage Railway’s safeguarding policies and core values
Application Instructions
To Apply, please send the following by 12:00 on 8th August 2025:
A cover letter outlining how your experience matches the role
A CV detailing your career history, responsibilities, achievements, and explanations for any employment gaps
Email: recruitment@swanagerailway.co.uk
Or post to:
Recruitment
Swanage Railway Company
Station House
Swanage, Dorset BH19 1HB
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Catering and events manager employer: Swanage Railway Co. Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Swanage Railway Co. Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering and events manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Swanage Railway's heritage and values. Understanding their mission will help you align your approach to catering and events management with their unique character, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the tourism and heritage sectors. Attend local events or join relevant online groups to connect with others who may have insights or connections at Swanage Railway, increasing your chances of landing an interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed teams in previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead a diverse team.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends in catering and event management, especially within the heritage and tourism sectors. Being knowledgeable about innovative practices can set you apart and show that you're proactive and forward-thinking.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering and events manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to specifically address how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Highlight your leadership skills and any relevant event planning experience, especially in a heritage or tourism context.
Detail Your CV: Your CV should clearly outline your career history, focusing on roles that demonstrate your catering and events management experience. Include specific achievements and responsibilities that relate to managing teams and delivering high-quality events.
Showcase Relevant Certifications: Mention any relevant certifications such as your Food Hygiene Certificate and First Aid certification prominently in your application. This shows you meet the compliance standards required for the role.
Proofread Before Submission: Before sending your application, take the time to proofread both your cover letter and CV. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swanage Railway Co. Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Event Planning Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific events you've planned or managed in the past. Highlight your ability to coordinate logistics, manage budgets, and ensure a seamless experience for guests. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and understanding of what it takes to deliver high-quality events.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
Since this role involves managing staff and volunteers, share examples of how you've successfully led teams in previous positions. Discuss your approach to training and motivating team members, as well as how you handle challenges that arise during events.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Compliance Standards
Familiarise yourself with food hygiene, health & safety, and licensing regulations relevant to catering operations. Be ready to explain how you've ensured compliance in past roles, as this is crucial for maintaining high service standards in a heritage setting.
✨Align with Swanage Railway's Values
Research Swanage Railway's mission and values, particularly their focus on customer service and heritage. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to enhancing visitor experiences while respecting the railway's historic character.