Operations Manager – Food

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshire countryside, ORIDA Hotel Newbury is a contemporary 4-star destination designed for both business and leisure. We offer effortless access to Newbury, Reading, Oxford, and the surrounding areas. At ORIDA Hotel Newbury, we pride ourselves on warm hospitality, modern facilities, and exceptional service. Our amenities include 108 modern guest rooms, a leisure club with a heated indoor pool, an on-site restaurant and bar, and flexible meeting and event spaces. We are dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay for all guests, reflecting our "CELEB" values – Consistency, Excitement, Love, Engagement, and Bravado.

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic
Operations Manager
with a strong background in
Food & Beverage and Conference operations
to join the leadership team at
Orida Hotel Newbury
. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day running of the hotel's restaurant, bar, conference, and events operations, ensuring excellence in service delivery, profitability, and guest satisfaction.

This role is hands-on, people-focused, and pivotal in driving operational standards, F&B performance, and overall guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee the daily operations of the
  restaurant, bar, and conference/events departments
  , ensuring a seamless guest experience.
• Work closely with the General Manager to deliver consistent service standards across all F&B outlets.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and food hygiene legislation.
• Manage and coordinate conference setups, catering requirements, and service delivery for corporate and private events.

Financial & Commercial

• Drive F&B revenue growth through effective upselling, promotions, and cost management.
• Monitor and control departmental budgets, including payroll, stock, and cost of sales.
• Analyse business trends, guest feedback, and performance data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support the GM in forecasting, budgeting, and P&L management for F&B and conference areas.

Team Management

• Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing operational team across restaurant, bar, and events departments.
• Conduct regular training and coaching to maintain high service standards and product knowledge.
• Implement clear communication channels and foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and excellence.

Guest Experience

• Ensure every guest receives an exceptional service experience, from breakfast to banqueting.
• Handle guest feedback and resolve operational challenges promptly and effectively.
• Maintain high visibility across all areas of the hotel, especially during peak service times.

Standards & Compliance

• Uphold Orida brand standards and operational procedures.
• Conduct regular quality audits of all F&B areas to maintain presentation, cleanliness, and service excellence.
• Support sustainability and waste reduction initiatives across operations.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a
  similar F&B-focused Operations Manager or senior F&B leadership role
  within a hotel or hospitality environment.
• Strong understanding of
  restaurant, bar, and conference operations
  .
• Excellent leadership and people management skills with a focus on developing teams.
• Commercially aware, with strong financial acumen and attention to detail.
• Exceptional guest service and communication skills.
• Organised, proactive, and able to thrive under pressure.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Career growth opportunities within the Orida Hotels group.
• Discounts on food, beverage, and accommodation across the portfolio.
• Supportive and professional working environment focused on excellence and development.