Defence Mess Operations Leader

Ventia; Holtze; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career development

Inclusive team culture

Opportunity to lead Defence support

Meaningful work with safety focus

Job summary

Ventia is seeking a capable Mess Manager to lead the daily operations of a busy Defence hospitality facility at Robertson Barracks in Darwin. You’ll supervise a team, ensure service delivery across dining, bar and events, and drive safety, quality and cost controls in line with contractual requirements.

You’ll report to the Hospitality & Catering Manager, oversee rostering, stock, and HACCP processes while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork and customer service excellence.

Qualifications

• We value leadership, operational excellence and a positive attitude.
• If you're the right fit for the role, we'll provide the training and support needed to gain any role-specific qualifications and certifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support a high-performing team to deliver exceptional service outcomes.
• Manage daily operations, ensuring service delivery meets contractual and operational standards.
• Coordinate workforce planning, rostering and coverage requirements.
• Build strong relationships with Defence personnel and key stakeholders.
• Drive a positive safety culture and ensure compliance with SHEQ requirements.
• Oversee food safety, HACCP compliance and quality assurance processes.
• Manage stock control, inventory activities and ordering requirements.
• Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Coordinate functions and events from planning through to delivery.
• Complete cash handling, reconciliations and reporting activities to required standards.
• Maintain a safe, secure and professional facility environment.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Stakeholder engagement

Problem solving

Financial administration

Safety & quality

Job description

Ventia is seeking a capable Mess Manager to lead the daily operations of a busy Defence hospitality facility at Robertson Barracks in Darwin. You’ll supervise a team, ensure service delivery across dining, bar and events, and drive safety, quality and cost controls in line with contractual requirements.

You’ll report to the Hospitality & Catering Manager, oversee rostering, stock, and HACCP processes while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork and customer service excellence.