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 careers@compass-group.com.au.

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.