Hospitality Manager – Mess Manager
Aliwal Barracks, Tidworth
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Mess Manager to oversee the day‑to‑day operations of our Mess at Aliwal Barracks, Tidworth. This role is integral to delivering high‑quality catering and hospitality services, promoting excellent client and customer relationships, and ensuring all operational standards are met and maintained.
Shift Pattern and Compensation
* 40 hours per week
* Monday to Friday (some weekends required)
* £15.53 per hour
* Sodexo rewards and benefits
Key Responsibilities
* Perform and supervise day‑to‑day activities of the Mess.
* Plan, organise, and manage delivery of all services within the Mess operational business area.
* Promote and manage functions, including planning, menus, and costing in conjunction with the catering team.
* Ensure standards of service detailed in the schedule of requirements (SOR), service level agreements (SLA), and KPIs are achieved, maintained, and developed.
* Liaise with the PMC/RSM and mess committee to develop relationships and promote Sodexo.
* Contribute to the growth of services to meet client and commercial expectations while maintaining strict budgetary control.
* Manage performance of assigned direct reports, including recruitment, training, and performance management.
* Maintain excellent client/customer relationships and attend relevant team meetings.
* Act as duty manager ‘on call’ and provide holiday/weekend cover as directed.
* Ensure the security of company and client property and assets under your control.
* Embrace Collaborative Business Relationships principles (BS11000) in line with Sodexo’s vision and values.
Essential Skills and Experience
* Proven experience in a management role within the soft FM services industry.
* Strong leadership and people management skills, including HR processes such as recruitment, training, performance management, disciplinary, and grievance procedures.
* Excellent numerical, interpersonal, and communication skills, both verbal and written.
* Knowledge of health & safety and food safety management.
* Ability to make independent decisions and work on own initiative within a team environment.
* Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
* Strong attention to detail and adherence to standards.
* Analytical problem‑solving skills and the ability to implement innovative solutions.
Desirable Skills and Experience
* Experience working within a military environment.
* Previous experience managing a similar role.
* Health and Safety qualification equivalent to IOSH Managing Safely.
* Soft FM technical skills including contract catering, hospitality, retail, and cleaning.
* Proven experience managing client relationships within a contract environment.
* Track record of leading, managing, and developing a team.
Why Join Us
This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic environment where you can make a real impact on the experience of Mess members and residents. You will be part of a supportive team, with opportunities to develop your skills and grow within the organisation.
What We Offer
* Mental health & wellbeing support
* Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
* 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
* Discounts for you & family
* Financial tools & retirement plan
* Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day
Additional Information
* Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
* Employment type: Full‑time
* Job function: Management and Manufacturing
* Industry: Facilities Services
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