• Lead hospitality operations at Victoria Barracks
• Drive team culture, service excellence and operational performance
• Do whst you love in a rewarding role supporting the defence team

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Mess Manager to join our team at Victoria Barracks. This is a hands-on leadership role suited to a hospitality professional who enjoys leading teams, delivering outstanding customer service and maintaining high operational standards.

THE POSITION

• Lead, coach and develop hospitality teams across daily operations
• Drive a positive team culture focused on engagement, accountability and service excellence
• Oversee dining services, hospitality functions and customer experience delivery
• Ensure compliance with contractual requirements, food safety standards and service expectations
• Manage rostering, workforce planning and team performance
• Monitor operational budgets, labour utilisation and service outcomes
• Maintain high standards of presentation, cleanliness and operational efficiency
• Build strong relationships with Defence stakeholders and internal teams

THE PERSON

• Proven experience in hospitality management, mess management or food and beverage leadership
• Strong people management, coaching and development skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
• Sound knowledge of food safety, HACCP and allergen management
• Experience managing rosters, labour costs and operational performance
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Current driver's licence preferred
• Ability to obtain and maintain a National Police Check and Defence clearance

BENEFITS

• Full-time leadership opportunity
• Career development and progression pathways within Compass Group
• Ongoing training and professional development
• On-site parking available
• Employee discounts, benefits and recognition programs
• Supportive and structured operating environment

Apply now to join our team at Victoria Barracks and play a key role in delivering exceptional hospitality services to Australian Defence Force personnel.

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

ESS Defence delivers the best hospitality and catering services to our Defence personnel. We are committed to providing nutritional and delicious meals to our customers, whether it is in dining halls or out on the field. The work that we do is essential in keeping our Australian Defence Force healthy, comfortable and living their best Defence Life.

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.