At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dedicated team to ensure safety and service excellence across the College.
- Company: Trinity Hall, a historic and supportive institution in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health care plan, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a friendly community and make a real impact on student welfare and safety.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 47000 £ per year.
Trinity Hall is seeking an experienced, professional and approachable Head Porter to lead three Porters’ Lodges and ensure a consistently high standard of service, safety and operational support across the College community. This is a key leadership role, responsible for managing a dedicated team of Porters and overseeing security, access control, fire safety, emergency response, student welfare support and day-to-day operations across the three Porters’ Lodge.
The successful candidate will bring proven management experience in a customer-facing or service-led environment, together with strong leadership, organisational and communication skills. They will be calm under pressure, security-conscious, discreet and committed to maintaining a welcoming, safe and supportive environment for Fellows, students, staff and visitors. The role requires flexibility, sound judgement and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across the College while upholding professional standards and Trinity Hall’s tradition of excellent service.
If you are an experienced, people-focused leader with a commitment to service excellence, safety and community, we would be delighted to hear from you.
What We Offer
- A permanent, full-time position, working 37.5 hours per week
- Working hours will normally be Monday to Friday, with flexibility required to meet operational needs
- Salary of £44-47,000 per annum, subject to a six-month probationary period
- A competitive employee benefits package
What We Are Looking For
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills
- Strong leadership skills and the confidence to make sound operational decisions
- Relevant health and safety knowledge or qualifications
- Fire safety training and first aid certificates, or willingness to undertake training where required
Key Areas of Responsibility
- Management and staff leadership
- Security and access control
- Health, safety and fire safety
- Student welfare support
Selection Process and Interview Dates
There will be two stages to the recruitment process: First-stage interviews for long-listed candidates will be held online during the week commencing 12 October 2026. Second-stage interviews with a selection panel for short-listed candidates will be held in person during the week commencing 19 October 2026.
About Us
Trinity Hall was founded in 1350 by the Bishop of Norwich primarily to teach Canon and Civil Law. Today, Trinity Hall is a progressive, liberal institution catering for the majority of subjects taught in the University. We have approximately 350 undergraduate and 250 graduate students, 65 Governing Body Fellows and 160 staff.
While the College is dedicated to academic excellence, we are proud of our reputation as a friendly and supportive institution for students, staff and Fellows alike. We have three sites located in Cambridge: Central, Wychfield, Thompson’s Lane and Bateman Street.
The College is committed to the principle and practice of equal opportunities and aims to be an equal opportunities employer. The College’s employment policy seeks to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on any grounds that are unjustified in terms of equality of opportunities for all.
The Benefits
- Enhanced Pension Scheme
- Generous Annual Leave
- Health Care Cash Plan
- Cycle Scheme
- Electric Vehicle Scheme
- Enhanced Parental Leave
- Home & Tech Scheme
- Life Cover (Death in service)
- Christmas Bonus
- Long Service Awards
- Learning and Development Opportunities
- Social Events
Head Porter in Cambridge employer: Trinity Hall
Trinity Hall offers a vibrant and supportive work environment for Kitchen Porters, where teamwork and professionalism are at the heart of our kitchen operations. With competitive remuneration and a commitment to employee well-being, including fixed days off and every other weekend free, we prioritise a healthy work-life balance. Join us to grow your skills in a dynamic setting that values cleanliness, safety, and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Porter in Cambridge
✨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 Trinity Hall. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Trinity Hall
Don't be shy about reaching out to Trinity Hall 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 Head Porter in Cambridge
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 Trinity Hall 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 Trinity Hall
✨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!
