Trading Operations Manager

Reading Students' Union; Reading; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A student-focused organization is seeking a Trading Operations Manager to lead food and beverage operations, focusing on high standards of service and compliance across various venues. The ideal candidate will manage day-to-day operations, drive income growth, and oversee compliance with licensing and safety standards. This role offers opportunities for professional development, a generous holiday allowance, and the chance to contribute to a collaborative environment.

Benefits

35 days annual holiday allowance

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative working environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing multi-venue and/or high-volume hospitality operations.
• Strong knowledge of licensing law, venue safety, and food hygiene.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations across bars, cafés, catering, technical and security services.
• Lead and develop Venue Managers, catering teams, and student staff.
• Drive income growth through innovative products, promotions, and events.
• Oversee stock control, EPOS systems, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety, and food hygiene standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Knowledge of licensing law

Food hygiene

Job description

Lead the heartbeat of our student community

Reading Students’ Union is looking for a dynamic Trading Operations Manager to oversee our vibrant commercial venues – including Mojos Bar & Kitchen, 3SIXTY, Up Coffee Shop – catering, technical and security services. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the student experience while driving operational excellence in our high-volume venues and delivering commercial success.

Check out more details here – Candidate Information Pack

About the Role

As Trading Operations Manager, you’ll take the lead on all food and beverage operations, ensuring high standards of service, safety, and compliance across multiple venues. Working closely with our Events teams, you’ll help diversify income streams and deliver unforgettable experiences for our students and customers.

What You’ll Do

• Manage day-to-day operations across bars, cafés, catering, technical and security services
• Lead and develop Venue Managers, catering teams, and student staff
• Drive income growth through innovative products, promotions, and events
• Oversee stock control, EPOS systems, and supplier relationships
• Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety, and food hygiene standards
• Support major events including Freshers Week, club nights, and large-scale Union activities

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience managing multi-venue and/or high-volume hospitality operations
• Strong knowledge of licensing law, venue safety, and food hygiene
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills
• Ability to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends
• Personal License (and willingness to become DPS)
• Food Safety and First Aid qualifications are desirable

Why Join Us

• You would play a key role in the Students’ Union commercial transformation
• We provide strong professional development opportunities
• A generous annual holiday allowance of 35 days, including 8 Bank Holidays and closure days during University closure periods
• Be a part of a collaborative, supportive working environment

Ready to make an impact?

Apply today and help us deliver outstanding services and experiences for our student community!