Company Overview
An exciting opportunity for an energetic, motivational and experienced Catering Manager, with a passion for the industry, has arisen at the Oceanarium Bournemouth. Leading from the floor, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management and development of our high turnover catering facilities, whilst ensuring that our visitors are given a great day out.
Located on the iconic Bournemouth seafront, the Catering function sits amongst the Oceanarium, a popular aquarium attraction welcoming thousands of visitors every year. Owned by Parques Reunidos, one of the world's largest leisure and attraction operators, we are part of an international organisation with attractions across Europe.
The Role
Through motivational and positive leadership, you will oversee a large team, implementing the highest standard of food health and safety and seeing that an excellent service is consistently provided. Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Catering Manager will be part of the management team, with a remit to develop, exploit and manage all catering financial opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
· Managing the day-to-day operation of catering services, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, and customer satisfaction
· Supporting in the recruiting, training, developing of catering team members to deliver exceptional service
· Leading and motivating front and back-of-house teams to achieve operational excellence
· Ensuring full compliance with food safety, health and safety, and hygiene regulations, including HACCP procedures
· Managing stock control, ordering, supplier relationships, and inventory management to minimise waste and maximise profitability
· Overseeing cash handling, financial controls, budgeting, and cost management within the catering operation
· Managing catering facilities, equipment maintenance, and cleanliness standards across all food service areas
· Managing and liaising with the Marketing on all Catering operations for Events and Functions
· Implementing continuous improvements based on customer feedback, operational reviews, and business objectives
· Supporting the commercial success and profitability of the catering department through effective planning and resource management
· Taking operational responsibility for catering services and providing leadership during peak trading periods and management absences
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Proven management experience within catering, hospitality, food service, event catering, or a similar environment
- Strong knowledge of food safety, health and safety legislation, and best practice catering procedures
- Experience leading, motivating, and developing high-performing catering teams
- Excellent organisational, communication, and people management skills
- A customer-focused approach with a passion for delivering outstanding food and service experiences
- Strong commercial awareness with experience managing budgets, food costs, labour costs, and profitability targets
- Experience in stock control, menu planning support, purchasing, and supplier management
- The ability to make confident decisions and effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- A proactive and hands-on management style with strong problem-solving abilities
- Flexibility to work across varying shifts, including weekends, evenings, and busy trading periods as required.
Pay: £31,000.00-£34,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Bournemouth BH2 5AA: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Hospitality: 3 years (required)
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
