We have an exciting opportunity for a Duty Manager to join our team at Rhodes House, one of our prestigious conference venues in Oxford (OX1 3RG).
This is a permanent position, working on a 5-out-of-7-day rota between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and midnight. The core contract is for 40 hours per week ; however, as a Duty Manager, flexibility is essential to accommodate events and business needs. Any additional hours worked will be compensated with time off in lieu (TOIL) .
Wilson Vale is an established, quality-led contract caterer. We work with amazing clients across the UK who place huge value on great food as a key part of their culture and community. We work in office restaurants, independent schools and at conference venues with the same high-end ethos throughout.
Our culture unites us. We stand for craft, quality, creative freedom, forward thinking and integrity. We never compromise on our commitment to fresh, seasonal produce and the fantastic people that make it all happen!
We are looking for an experienced Hospitality Manager who can inspire and motivate their team while maintaining a hands-on approach to operations. This role covers a wide range of hospitality services within this key Oxford contract, delivering both internal and external commercial events .
As Duty Manager, you will help lead the team to deliver exceptional food and service. Strong organisational and communication skills are essential to ensure client confidence and clear team direction .
RESPONSIBILTIES & EXPERIENCE:
Oversee the delivery of all hospitality services across breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including a variety of service styles such as buffets, conferencing, fine dining, canapés, BBQs, and more
Manage the catering team during events with diligence, ensuring both efficiency and exceptional service standards
Take an entirely hands-on, team-focused approach to operations
Maintain a professional and confident communication style with clients to instil trust and assurance
Manage a team of 12, providing clear leadership and direction
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the venue
Ensure that all customer requirements are consistently met and exceeded
Lead staff development, including training, mentoring, and motivating team members
Demonstrate a genuine passion for great food and outstanding service
Possess excellent people management and communication skills
Show proven experience in managing successful, high-performing teams
Exhibit strong organisational skills and attention to detail
Be flexible and adaptable regarding working hours to meet business needs
Thrive in a pressurised environment, effectively multi-tasking and prioritising workloads
OUR CULTURE:
Craft at our core – we pride ourselves on our craft-skilled chefs who create wonderful fresh food from scratch.
It's all about the food – the menu is the most important document our chefs write every week.
Quality, seasonal ingredients – 300+ British suppliers and our chefs can source locally.
Freedom to create – our teams love to cook up exciting food themes and pop-ups to keep the food fun.
Support like no other – our business was founded by family and we have stayed true to those same family values of nurturing development, protecting our values and building trust and loyalty.
Making food that not only tastes great but is good for the planet. We have always had a strong environmental ethos and are dedicated to our social and environmental commitments.
We believe in tailored training and opportunities to build your career with us.
WILSON VALE PERKS:
Our working hours are some of the best you'll find in catering - we are strong believers in work-life balance
Our working environment is fun and inspiring, with excellent career development opportunities
Craft Works – Free craft-focused career development training programme
Paid training bespoke to you
Access to our Employee Assistance Programme- your wellbeing is very important to us
Online employee benefits scheme - monetary savings on everyday items!
Your Birthday off every year after 1 years' service.
Enhanced Maternity Pay
Wilson Vale is an equal opportunities employer that strives to create an inclusive working environment for all. We are committed to supporting our people and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. From each and every person in our catering teams, to our operations and central support teams – everyone at has a voice.
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