MESS MANAGER - FULL TIME - VICTORIA BARRACKS

Hospitality Leadership | Events & Functions | Career Growth

Lead hospitality operations at a unique and historic venue
Manage a diverse range of functions, events and daily dining operations
Build strong relationships with military personnel, corporate clients and private customers
Career development opportunities within ESS Defence and Compass Group

ESS Defence delivers exceptional hospitality and support services to Defence sites across Australia. Our teams play a vital role in supporting Australian Defence Force personnel through outstanding dining experiences, hospitality services and memorable events.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Mess Manager to join our team at Victoria Barracks, Paddington. This is a hands-on leadership role combining hospitality management, client engagement, team leadership and event coordination in one of Sydney's most unique hospitality environments.

No two weeks are the same. From military functions and Dining-In Nights to weddings, wine tastings, corporate events and private celebrations, this role offers an exciting opportunity to create exceptional guest experiences while leading a passionate team.

THE POSITION

Manage the day-to-day operations of the Mess
Lead and support front-of-house hospitality teams
Build positive relationships with members, guests and clients
Coordinate functions and events from enquiry through to delivery
Oversee weddings, Dining-In Nights, VIP functions and special events
Work closely with kitchen teams to deliver exceptional food and service experiences
Manage rostering, staffing, stock control and venue presentation
Ensure compliance with food safety, licensing and operational standards
Maintain high levels of customer service and guest satisfaction

THE PERSON

Experience in hospitality, venue, restaurant or mess management
Strong leadership and people management skills
Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
Experience managing functions, events or hospitality operations
Strong organisational and planning skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
Customer-focused with a hands-on approach
RSA certification or willingness to obtain
Ability to obtain and maintain a National Police Check

BENEFITS

Manage a unique and historic hospitality venue
Lead a supportive and passionate team
Deliver a diverse range of memorable events and guest experiences
Ongoing training and development opportunities
Career progression pathways within Compass Group
Employee discounts, benefits and recognition programs
Stable and rewarding full-time role
Meals and uniforms provided while on duty

Apply now to join our team at Victoria Barracks, Paddington and play a key role in delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.

All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory background checks including a National Police Check.

We are committed to a fair and accessible recruitment process. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact 1300TALENT or [email protected].

We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and from people of all backgrounds, ages, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities. We also welcome applications from Veterans and Defence family members.