New College seeks to appoint a highly experienced Hospitality Director to shape and lead hospitality within one of Oxfords most historic colleges, delivering exceptional experiences in a unique academic setting. The Hospitality Director will be supported by Heads of Department including a Conference and Events Manager, Executive Chef, Head Butler, Front of House Manager and Bar Manager as well as two Hospitality Administrators.
The College
Founded in 1379, New College is among the oldest and largest colleges of the University of Oxford. The colleges are independent, self-governing institutions that serve not only as academic bodies but also as social and residential communities for their students. New College is currently home to approximately 440 undergraduate and 350 graduate students, who collectively pursue a broad range of subjects offered by the University.
The Hospitality Director Role
The Hospitality Director is a senior leadership appointment, requiring substantial experience in strategic management and a proven track record of overseeing complex hospitality operations. The role encompasses responsibility for all aspects of the Colleges hospitality provision, including formal dining, conference and events services, catering, and front-of-house delivery. The postholder will be accountable for maintaining exceptional service standards that uphold the Colleges heritage, while also driving innovation, operational efficiency, and commercial sustainability.
Main Responsibilities
The Hospitality Director will provide strategic leadership and direction to a diverse, highly skilled team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous development. The role carries full financial accountability for the department, including rigorous budgetary management, the identification and optimisation of income-generating opportunities within the context of an Oxford college, and the assurance that all procurement activities are conducted in an ethical and responsible manner.
Interviews are expected to take place between the 8th and 19th June 2026.
Person Specification Essential
Professional qualification to degree level in a relevant hospitality subject or equivalent worked experience.
Significant senior management experience in hospitality, hotels, or institutional catering
Proven track record of delivering high-end events and dining experiences
Strong financial and commercial acumen
Excellent leadership and people management skills
Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities
Desirable
Membership of a relevant professional association (CMI, MIH, CGC) etc
Experience within a collegiate university, heritage venue, or similar environment
Knowledge of Oxford college dining traditions and formal service
Relevant professional qualifications (e.g., hospitality management, catering, or business)
Key Attributes
Strategic thinker combined with a strong operational focus
Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to service quality
Ability to balance tradition with a forward-looking innovative approach
Calm under pressure, with well-developed problem-solving skills
Benefits 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
Generous salary-based occupational pension scheme
Complimentary lunch provided on working days when meals are served
Annual travel pass support scheme (bus or train)
Cycle to Work scheme
Employee Assistance Programme
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