Mess Manager

Mess Manager – HMS Excellent

Location: Portsmouth
Salary: Up to £32,000 Per Annum
Hours: 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday with occasional weekend functions)
Benefits: Free parking, meals on duty, + full Compass benefits package

Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Mess Manager to lead the catering, hospitality, and soft FM services across two Defence Messes at HMS Excellent.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for the smooth day-to-day running of Mess operations, ensuring high standards of service, compliance, and customer experience within a Defence environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all Mess operations, including catering, hospitality, and front-of-house services
• Oversee day-to-day soft FM service delivery, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency
• Act as the primary point of contact for the client, building strong relationships and ensuring expectations are met
• Deliver high standards across daily Mess services, functions, and events
• Manage and respond to client feedback and satisfaction surveys, driving continuous improvement
• Ensure Mess facilities are well promoted, creating a welcoming and professional environment
• Identify opportunities to enhance service delivery and increase revenue
• Take full ownership of budget management, including cost control, sales monitoring, and financial reporting
• Plan and manage staff rotas and resources in line with business needs
• Ensure clear communication across departments to support seamless event and service delivery
• Maintain compliance with health & safety, food safety, and Defence standards

About You

• Proven experience as a Mess Manager, Hospitality Manager, or similar leadership role within catering or Defence environments
• Strong understanding of Mess operations, service standards, and customer expectations
• Commercially aware with experience in budget and cost management
• Excellent leadership and people management skills
• Strong communicator with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels
• Highly organised with strong administrative and operational skills
• Confident using IT systems and hospitality platforms
• Positive, proactive attitude with a focus on service excellence and attention to detail

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, ESS supports over 250 military establishments, government sites, and secure environments. We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding service in critical environments where reliability and professionalism are essential.

What We Offer

• Free meals on duty
• Free onsite parking
• Contributory pension scheme
• Career development through Career Pathways & MyLearning programmes
• Digital GP access and healthcare benefits
• Discounts across travel, retail, and entertainment
• Wellness, mindfulness, and fitness programmes
• Access to a wide range of employee rewards and discounts