Operations Manager

Aimbridge Hospitality; Bedford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A global hospitality leader is looking for an Operations Manager to oversee daily hotel operations in Bedford. This key role involves leading recruitment, ensuring guest satisfaction, and preparing the hotel for an upcoming refurbishment. The ideal candidate has proven leadership experience, ideally in a branded setting, a strong food and beverage background, and a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. Join a dynamic team and shape the future of hospitality in this booming destination.

Benefits

Discounted stays

Generous food and beverage savings

Flexible pay options

Wellbeing support

Qualifications

• Proven hospitality leader with Head of Department experience, ideally in a branded environment.
• Strong background in food and beverage management is an advantage.
• Ambitious, adaptable, and passionate about guest experiences.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and lead recruitment and team development.
• Champion guest satisfaction and create memorable experiences.
• Prepare the property for refurbishment and influence hotel strategy.

Skills

Hospitality leadership

Operational expertise

Commercial acumen

Food and beverage management

Team motivation

Job description

Overview

Take the Lead. Shape the Future.

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.

Who We Are

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.

What’s In It For You

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.

Your Role

Your Role : Make Every Day Count

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.

What We’re Looking For

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 Apply

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