Deputy Head Catering, Retail & Hospitality

This is an exciting opportunity to join the multi-award-winning Facilities team at Manchester Metropolitan University within the Commercial Services department (Accommodation, Catering and Conferences) on their journey to becoming the best Facilities department in the sector and supporting the University's ambition of becoming the best modern university in the UK.

The Deputy Head of Retail, Catering & Hospitality will play a vital role in supporting the development of the Commercial Services department. The post holder will:

• Lead and develop the operational performance of the department's portfolio of catering outlets and hospitality services by implementing efficient and effective operating models and processes. They will introduce new opportunities that maximise income and ensure that the department delivers a positive financial and reputational contribution.

• Drive the University's catering outlets and hospitality services to be effective, efficient and productive, generating high customer demand and satisfaction while maintaining appropriate margins and reviewing and extending quality and range.

• Improve the customer experience and speed of service, developing the catering brand and marketing reach, while providing value-for-money products and services.

The Deputy Head of Retail, Catering & Hospitality will be an enthusiastic, confident and capable individual with proven experience in motivating, leading and developing agile, cohesive teams to deliver consistently high-quality, customer-focused services within a university environment.

You will have experience managing complex retail catering, hospitality, conference and events organisations, or high street operations, preferably with multi-unit or multi-site experience, with a strong track record of identifying and implementing successful business development opportunities.

Alongside this, you will have excellent sales and marketing skills and experience in implementing strategic plans and measurable KPIs within a service-led organisation, ensuring the timely delivery of targets and the management of organisational change. You will also have an in-depth understanding of operational policies, procedures and good management practices to ensure compliance with all statutory obligations.

Responsible for delivering food and beverage services across the Manchester campus, the current in-house team provides both retail catering and hospitality services across a range of outlets and locations. There is also a mix of external independent vendors across several sites, as well as branded high street coffee outlets.

The service supports the core business of the University and aims to enhance the staff and student experience while delivering an annual contribution for reinvestment.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from local and international communities, particularly those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.  

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.  

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.