Assistant Catering & Hospitality Manager in Macclesfield

Assistant Catering & Hospitality Manager in Macclesfield

Macclesfield Full-Time No working from home possible
The University of Manchester

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support the Catering & Hospitality Manager in delivering exceptional food and event experiences.
  • Company: Join the vibrant team at Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a fantastic pension scheme, health services, and generous leave.
  • Other info: Flexible hours with no Mondays required, plus discounts at major retailers.
  • Why this job: Be part of a mission to inspire curiosity while working in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in catering or event operations is a plus, but not essential.

Are you ready to provide an ‘out of this world’ catering offering at the iconic Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement? Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement (JBCE) is a vibrant hub for scientific discovery, education, and inspiration. You'll be part of a passionate team dedicated to igniting curiosity and wonder, and you will play a starring role in that mission, directly fuelling an unforgettable experience.

We are looking to appoint a hospitality professional to support the Catering & Hospitality Manager in the day-to-day running of the Planet and First Light Cafés, together with Event and Conferencing Hospitality, ensuring efficient administration, professional execution, and high-quality food and beverage presentation and delivery, all while adhering to health, safety and hygiene regulations. The role will assist in delivering excellent customer service, enhancing the visitor experience, and maximising sales across the centre’s cafes and event operation.

The Assistant Manager will support the coordination and supervision of front-of-house café & event staff, helping to foster a motivated, welcoming, and professional team culture. The postholder will assist with daily operational procedures, rota planning, and act as a key point of contact for team queries. They will also deputise for the Catering & Hospitality Manager in their absence.

In this crucial role, you will support:

  • A strong food and beverage offer: Help deliver a high-quality café and event service in a welcoming setting.
  • An effective team: Support and motivate staff to deliver excellent customer care and service standards.
  • Operational excellence: Promote best practice, health and safety compliance, staff development, and effective stock and financial processes.
  • Collaborative delivery: Work with colleagues to ensure smooth event hospitality and effective promotion of services.
  • Strategic support: Help monitor performance, costs and sales targets, and contribute to business planning.

A natural positive attitude towards a busy/pressurised environment and the ability to work flexibly across the week to the requirements of the business is essential to this role. Previous experience running catering and event operations within a cultural venue/institution is preferred but not essential.

PLEASE NOTE – Jodrell Bank does not open on Mondays (except for School Holidays), and therefore working hours are generally between Tuesday and Sunday.

What you will get in return:

  • Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
  • Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
  • Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
  • Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
  • Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

Assistant Catering & Hospitality Manager in Macclesfield employer: The University of Manchester

At Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work environment where passion for science and hospitality converge. Our team enjoys a strong focus on employee wellbeing, with benefits such as a market-leading pension scheme, generous annual leave, and access to health services, all while working in a unique cultural venue that inspires curiosity and collaboration. Join us to be part of a motivated team dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences in a supportive and dynamic setting.

The University of Manchester

Contact Details:

The University of Manchester Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Assistant Catering & Hospitality Manager in Macclesfield

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 The University of Manchester. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to The University of Manchester

Don't be shy about reaching out to The University of Manchester 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 Assistant Catering & Hospitality Manager in Macclesfield

Customer Service
Team Coordination
Event Management
Food and Beverage Presentation
Health and Safety Compliance
Operational Procedures
Staff Development

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 The University of Manchester 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 The University of Manchester

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!