Operations Manager

Job Ref: INT24314

Branch: Mercure Bedford Centre Hotel

Location: Mercure Bedford Centre Hotel, Bedford

Salary/Benefits: £40,000

Contract type: Permanent

Hours: Full Time

Posted date: 27/11/2025

Closing date: 29/12/2025

Aimbridge Hospitality EMEA is looking for an Operations Manager to drive success at the Mercure Bedford Centre Hotel—a property at the heart of a destination on the rise. This is your chance to step up, make an impact, and lead a hotel through an exciting transformation.

Bedford is changing fast. With a major refurbishment planned for 2026 and the arrival of the Universal Studios theme park in the coming years, the opportunities for growth are huge. We need a leader who thrives on challenge, sees potential everywhere, and knows how to turn vision into reality—especially when it comes to maximizing food beverage opportunities and building a culture where teams deliver excellence every day.

Aimbridge Hospitality EMEA is part of the global Aimbridge family, connecting great people to great experiences across brands like Hilton, IHG, Accor, and Marriott. We're passionate about hospitality and committed to helping our people grow while creating unforgettable guest experiences.

This is more than a role—it's a launchpad for your career. You'll join a global leader in hospitality with the resources and support to help you take the next big step. From industry-leading training and leadership development to opportunities for progression across some of the world's most iconic brands, we'll give you the tools to thrive. You'll enjoy exclusive perks like discounted stays, generous food and beverage savings, and flexible pay options that put you in control and wellbeing support whenever you need it. At Aimbridge, we don't just offer jobs—we create careers and experiences that matter.

As Operations Manager, you'll be the driving force behind the hotel's success. You'll oversee daily operations, lead recruitment and team development, and work closely with the General Manager to shape strategy and performance. You'll champion guest satisfaction, using insights and feedback to create experiences that stand out. And you'll play a key role in preparing the property for its refurbishment—setting the stage for a new era of hospitality in Bedford.

This is a role with real progression potential, including stepping into General Manager responsibilities and influencing the future of the hotel.

We're looking for a proven hospitality leader with experience at Head of Department level or above, ideally within a branded hotel or large venue. You'll combine commercial acumen with operational expertise, confident in driving revenue, managing budgets, and improving efficiency without compromising quality. A strong background in food and beverage is a real advantage, as you'll be unlocking its full potential in a market set for growth. Just as important are your leadership skills—you'll inspire and motivate teams, coach talent, and create a culture of accountability and service excellence. If you're ambitious, adaptable, and passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences while shaping the future of a hotel in a booming destination, we want to hear from you.

At Aimbridge, people are the heart of our business. We're committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone has A Place to Grow.

Ready to take the next step and lead the future of hospitality in Bedford? Apply today.

The Mercure Bedford Centre is ideally situated in the heart of the busy market town of Bedford and is ideal for business and leisure guests. Thanks to our prime location, we have great transport links which make getting around by rail or car a breeze. On-site parking is available, and you're within walking distance of Bedford Railway Station. On the bank of the River Great Ouse, our restaurant and bar offers beautiful panoramic views over the river and surrounding area.

We're close to the M1 and just a mile off the A6, so you'll have easy access to local attractions like the Higgins Museum, Silverstone Circuit race track, John Bunyan Museum, Bedford Park and Woburn Safari Park. We have seven air-conditioned meeting rooms fully equipped with modern technology. They're perfect for business conferences or celebratory occasions, accommodating up to 450 guests.

Our hotel is conveniently located to London Luton Airport, London Stansted Airport and London Heathrow Airport for international and domestic guests travelling by plane. Milton Keynes, Cambridge and Central London are all within reach too.