About the role and the team
The Front of House Manager role is an exciting opportunity to lead the customer-facing operations at Dorking Halls, ensuring visitors receive an exceptional experience while supporting the successful delivery of a diverse programme of events.
Working within the wider management team, you will be responsible for overseeing all Front of House and hospitality operations, including the café and bar, conference catering, private parties and other hospitality services. You will play a key role in maintaining high standards of presentation, customer service, operational efficiency and commercial performance across the venue.
As a Duty Manager and key holder, you will help ensure the safe and effective operation of Dorking Halls, taking responsibility for events, customers and staff whilst upholding licensing and health and safety requirements.
The role will also involve leading and developing a team of Duty Managers and Event Assistants, driving a positive team culture and ensuring resources are deployed effectively to meet business needs.
What we are looking for from you
You will have experience working with the public in a busy customer-facing environment and a strong understanding of delivering excellent customer service.
You will bring experience of managing hospitality, catering or food and beverage operations and be confident managing stock control, cash handling and supplier relationships.
You will be an effective people manager, with experience recruiting, training, motivating and developing staff to achieve high standards of performance and customer care.
You will have the ability to remain calm under pressure, make decisions during challenging situations and work independently using your own initiative.
You will be organised and methodical, with strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritise competing demands within a fast-paced environment.
You will be committed to maintaining high standards of presentation, communication and teamwork while demonstrating a flexible approach to changing business requirements.
Essential requirements
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Experience of working with the public in a busy environment.
- Understanding of effective customer care principles.
- Experience of managing a catering, hospitality or food and beverage operation.
- Knowledge of health and safety requirements within a venue environment.
- Experience of handling and reconciling cash and card payments.
- Experience recruiting, training and managing casual or temporary staff.
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GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).
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Personal Licence Holder.
- Food Hygiene Qualification (Level 1, 2 or 3).
- First Aid at Work qualification.
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Ability to remain calm in a crisis and make sound decisions.
- Ability to work independently and use initiative.
- Strong leadership and staff management skills.
- Excellent communication and teamworking abilities.
- Commitment to delivering high standards of customer care.
- Well organised, adaptable and able to prioritise workloads effectively.
Why should you join us and what's in it for you?
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Opportunity to lead Front of House operations within a well-respected entertainment and events venue.
- Varied role covering events, hospitality, operations and people management.
- Opportunity to contribute to the continued growth and success of Dorking Halls.
- Training and development opportunities to support your career progression.
- Collaborative and supportive working environment.
- The chance to make a direct impact on customer experience and venue performance.
Further information
This role requires a flexible approach to working hours, including evenings, weekends and public holidays, in line with the operational needs of the venue.
Applicants should be comfortable acting as Duty Manager and key holder, taking responsibility for the safe and efficient running of events and Front of House operations.
The successful candidate will be expected to work in accordance with Council policies, including health and safety, risk management, data protection and continuous improvement principles.
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)
Mole Valley District Council is preparing for a major transformation through Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) which will come into effect on 1 April 2027. The aim of LGR is to create a more streamlined, efficient and locally responsive system of government that strengthens public services. You can find out more about the LGR on the Surrey LGR Hub website
As a result of these changes, Surrey County Council and the 11 District and Borough Councils — including Mole Valley District Council — will be replaced by two new unitary councils: East Surrey and West Surrey. Mole Valley District Council will become part of the new East Surrey Unitary Council and this authority will be responsible for all services in the eastern part of the county.
As we move toward LGR, we want to reassure all applicants that roles linked to Mole Valley District Council will continue beyond the transition period and arrangements are in place to ensure that staff will transfer on existing terms and conditions to the new East Surrey Council.
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