Deputy Venue Manager

Deputy Venue Manager

Location: Reading, UK
Salary: Circa £29,498.44 per annum (FTE 1.07)
⏰ Contract: Full-time (37.5 hours per week, annualised)

Join Reading Students’ Union and help shape unforgettable student experiences!

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Deputy Venue Manager to support the running of our busy licensed venues, catering outlets, and event spaces at the heart of the University of Reading campus.

From iconic club nights and live entertainment to food, drink, and society showcases, no two days are the same. You’ll work closely with Venue Managers to make sure operations run smoothly, supervise staff teams, and step up to lead when required.

This is a fantastic opportunity for hospitality professionals looking to develop both their leadership and hospitality skillset in a vibrant, multi-faceted, student-focused environment.

What you’ll do:

• Support the day-to-day running of bars, catering services, and events

• Supervise the operations of Mojos kitchen team and Up! Coffee shop in delivering food, customer service and safety to an outstanding standard

• Supervise the operations of Mojos bar team in ensuring staff are delivering all drinks to specification, whilst delivering outstanding hospitality for our customers

• Supporting the operation of our Wednesday Union club night – with shifts varying from supporting venue managers in the front of house operation, whilst also supporting the kitchen in its delivery of our late night and loaded Menu.

• Lead on projects allocated by Venue Managers which drive profit, customer satisfaction and operational practices

• Supervise and motivate front-line teams to deliver safe, high-quality service

• Help manage stock, suppliers, and compliance with licensing and safety standards

• Contribute to staff training and development

• Consistently lead by example on all safety matters – to ensure we deliver the safest environment possible for our team and customers

• Deputise for Venue Managers when required

What we’re looking for:

• Experience working in hospitality, venues, or events (busy settings a bonus!)

• Supervisory or team leader experience, or the ambition to step up

• A strong eye for detail and commitment to excellent service

• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends

• A desire to learn and progress within a busy multifaceted venue – developing a range of skills from leading a high-volume nightclub operation, a busy daytime and evening bar, to our catering and technical services.

• A proactive, professional, and team-focused approach

Why join us?

• Be part of a purpose-led organisation at the heart of student life

• Gain valuable management experience with training and development opportunities

• Generous holiday allowance, including Christmas closure

• Staff discounts and a supportive, collaborative workplace

To apply, send us your CV and a cover letter explaining your experience and why you’d be a great fit for the team