Hostel Manager — Lead a 195-Bed, Purpose-Driven Operation

Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales); York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

10 nights free hostel stays per year

Staff discount & cashback portal

Free YHA Membership each year

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales) York is seeking a Hostel Manager to lead one of the largest hostels in the network. The role combines hands-on leadership with people development, ensuring guests receive warm welcomes, value and memorable experiences.

The post involves managing a team, safeguarding guests, and steering operational budgets while maintaining YHA's standards and charitable mission. It is a permanent, full-time role at 42.5 hours per week in York.

Qualifications

• Proven hospitality industry experience including hotels, cafés, hostels.
• Experience in people management—recruitment, induction, development, reviews.
• Excellent customer service skills and ability to handle difficult situations.
• Ability to prioritise and manage varying pressures and workload peaks.
• Food safety level 2 and APLH level 2 qualifications are desirable.
• Basic IT skills with Microsoft Office suite (Word, Outlook, Excel).
• Experience of managing P&Ls and budgets, including cash handling.
• Understanding of YHA core purpose and HEART values.

Responsibilities

• Lead a talented team and oversee a fast-paced operation.
• Balance day-to-day hostel management with people development and performance.
• Ensure high standards across the hostel and deliver great guest experiences.
• Manage budget, expenditure, and revenue across food & beverage and services.

Skills

People management

Customer service

Budgeting / P&L

Food safety level 2

IT skills (MS Office)

Ability to work under pressure

Hospitality industry experience

Education

Food safety level 2 qualification

APLH level 2 qualification

Tools

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Excel

Job description

Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales) York is seeking a Hostel Manager to lead one of the largest hostels in the network. The role combines hands-on leadership with people development, ensuring guests receive warm welcomes, value and memorable experiences.

The post involves managing a team, safeguarding guests, and steering operational budgets while maintaining YHA's standards and charitable mission. It is a permanent, full-time role at 42.5 hours per week in York.