At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in high-end catering operations and client relationship management.
- Company: Join Palmer & Howells, a leading contract catering specialist in the education sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, private medical insurance, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Experience a dynamic culture of innovation and excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Launch your career with real responsibility and mentorship from industry experts.
- Qualifications: Recent graduates with a passion for food and strong communication skills are welcome.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 38000 £ per year.
Are you a recent graduate with a hunger for success and a genuine passion for great food? Do you want to build a career in a dynamic, quality‑driven industry? Then get ready to showcase your talent with Palmer & Howells, a premier contract catering specialist delivering fresh, innovative dining solutions across the independent education sector.
We are hunting for ambitious, energetic graduates to join our fast‑paced team. This isn’t a standard desk job; it’s a unique opportunity to gain hands‑on operational experience, learn directly from industry experts, and kickstart a truly rewarding career.
Why launch your career with us?- Real Responsibility from Day One: Dive straight into live projects, helping deliver bespoke, high‑tier catering services for prestigious clients. You will learn by doing and see the direct impact of your work.
- Elite Mentorship: Work side‑by‑side with culinary and operational leaders who are genuinely invested in your professional growth and long‑term success.
- The 360° Rotation: Get a taste of everything. From mastering fresh‑food kitchen management to building high‑level client relationships, you will rotate through key business areas to develop a well‑rounded executive skillset.
- A Culture of Innovation: We thrive on creativity and sustainability. If you have fresh ideas, we want to hear them. You will have a direct voice in shaping the future of independent school dining.
- A Recipe for Advancement: We don't just offer a job; we pave a pathway. Enjoy structured training, clear promotion milestones, and excellent development opportunities.
- Operational Excellence: Master the day‑to‑day management of high‑end catering operations, ensuring prestigious school clients receive flawless, premium service. This provides deep insight into fresh‑food standards and kitchen supply chains.
- Commercial Growth & Strategy: Build your business acumen by researching, drafting, and managing high‑value corporate tenders. Working with senior leaders, you will map out strategic sales pipelines and master the financial levers of contract catering.
- Client Relationship Management: Become an expert in client retention by partnering with school bursars, governors, and internal teams. You will learn to navigate complex stakeholder needs, constantly innovating to exceed expectations.
- Industry Deep‑Dive: Acquire a comprehensive understanding of the boutique commercial catering sector. You will network with key stakeholders and attend specialist culinary forums to ground your practical experience in broader industry trends.
- £38,000 per annum plus £460 monthly car allowance
- Private medical insurance plus comprehensive Life Insurance
- 25 days annual leave plus an extra paid day off for your birthday
- Ongoing hands‑on training, expert mentorship, and a vibrant, supportive team culture
Ready to shape the future of catering? If you are eager to join a forward‑thinking company that values quality, innovation, and people, apply today to join the Palmer & Howells success story.
Requirements- You are fully available to launch your career this coming October.
- A recent graduate with a degree in any discipline (we value drive and attitude over specific papers).
- A genuine love for food, premium hospitality, and sustainable sourcing.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills—you are a natural relationship builder.
- A valid UK driving licence and the willingness to travel across our client sites.
Graduate Operations Manager Graduate Scheme in Guildford employer: Tussell Limited
Palmer & Howells is an exceptional employer that offers recent graduates a unique opportunity to kickstart their careers in the dynamic world of contract catering. With a strong focus on mentorship, hands-on experience, and a culture that encourages innovation, employees can expect real responsibility from day one, alongside structured training and clear pathways for advancement. Located within the vibrant independent education sector, our team thrives on creativity and sustainability, making it an ideal place for those passionate about food and hospitality to grow and make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Operations Manager Graduate Scheme in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni or professionals in the catering industry. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals. Don’t be shy; we all love a good conversation over food!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for food and hospitality in every interaction. Whether it’s during an interview or a casual meet-up, let your enthusiasm shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but a career in this vibrant industry!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Palmer & Howells and their unique approach to catering. Bring fresh ideas to the table—show us how you can contribute to our culture of innovation. We love candidates who think outside the box!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities there. Let’s kickstart your journey together at Palmer & Howells!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Operations Manager Graduate Scheme in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:Make sure to highlight your genuine love for food and hospitality in your application. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you’re excited about being part of the catering industry!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send out the same CV and cover letter everywhere. Take the time to tailor your application to us at Palmer & Howells. Mention specific aspects of our company culture or values that resonate with you.
Be Yourself:We’re looking for energetic graduates who are ready to dive into the role. Let your personality shine through in your written application. Show us who you are beyond your qualifications!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to see your application and get you on the path to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tussell Limited
✨Know Your Stuff About Food and Hospitality
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the food industry, especially around fresh food standards and sustainable sourcing. Palmer & Howells values a genuine passion for great food, so be ready to share your thoughts on current trends and innovations in catering.
✨Show Off Your People Skills
Since this role involves client relationship management, practice how you communicate your ideas clearly and confidently. Think of examples where you've built relationships or worked in teams, as this will demonstrate your exceptional interpersonal skills.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Ambitions
Palmer & Howells is looking for ambitious graduates, so be prepared to talk about your career goals and how this role fits into your plans. Show them that you're eager to learn and grow within the company, and don’t hesitate to mention any fresh ideas you have!
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions about the company culture, mentorship opportunities, and the 360° rotation process. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
