Meetings and Events Operations Manager

Location: On-site in Knutsford, Cheshire, North-West England (not remote)

Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is one of the North West’s most distinguished luxury destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and surrounded by a championship golf course, the resort combines Fairmont’s world-renowned elegance with the warmth and character of its local heritage. Renowned for exceptional service and attention to detail, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere offers guests an indulgent escape featuring world-class spa experiences, exceptional dining, and outstanding leisure facilities. Whether visiting for relaxation, celebration, or business, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is dedicated to creating unforgettable moments and delivering the very best in 5-star luxury hospitality.

Your purpose will be:

The Meetings and Events Operations Manager oversees all banquet, event, and conference operations, ensuring exceptional service, adherence to brand standards, and strong departmental performance. Working closely with Sales, Culinary, Food & Beverage, and Maintenance teams, this role ensures seamless planning, coordination, and delivery of memorable events.

The position leads and develops the banqueting team, driving service excellence, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement. Responsibilities include financial oversight, inventory control, and effective resource management to maximise revenue and guest satisfaction.

• Lead all Banqueting food and beverage operations, ensuring flawless service and alignment with Fairmont standards.
• Develop and maintain departmental SOPs to ensure consistency, efficiency, and exceptional guest experiences.
• Oversee daily operations with strong floor presence, supporting colleagues and engaging with guests and members.
• Create effective staffing schedules that balance business needs, colleague wellbeing, and financial targets.
• Recruit, train, and develop a talented Banqueting team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous growth.
• Manage stock, costs, and revenue performance to achieve departmental financial objectives.
• Review products, services, and guest feedback to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
• Monitor industry trends and competitor activity to inform departmental strategy.
• Support forecasting, payroll planning, and financial reporting in line with hotel standards.
• Ensure full compliance with health, safety, hygiene, and statutory requirements, including risk assessments and fire procedures.
• Maintain a safe, immaculate, and well‑presented environment across all Banqueting areas.
• Lead by example, nurturing a strong team spirit and upholding Fairmont values in all interactions.
• Proven experience in a Managerial role, ideally within a luxury or high‑volume environment.
• Qualification in Hospitality Management/Food & Beverage preferred
• Additional certification(s) in Food & Beverage will be an advantage
• Experienced in all aspects of restaurant and banquet service.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in a similar capacity with proven records in delivering results
• Excellent reading, writing and oral proficiency in English language

Please note that we believe in flexibility and multi-skilling, and you may be asked to do different tasks from time to time to enable us to meet the needs of our guests and colleagues.

• Proven experience in a Managerial role, ideally within a luxury or high‑volume environment.
• Qualification in Hospitality Management/Food & Beverage preferred
• Additional certification(s) in Food & Beverage will be an advantage
• Experienced in all aspects of restaurant and banquet service.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in a similar capacity with proven records in delivering results
• Excellent reading, writing and oral proficiency in English language

What is in it for you?

• Exclusive Discounts:
  • Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, Spa and Golf discount
  • Fairmont, Raffles, and Accor Hotels (friends and family rates are included)
  • 20% off food and beverage in on-site restaurants
• Colleague restaurant
• Being part of The Mere Team – our culture is unique!
• You will benefit from training and development opportunities
• Competitive salary and benefits including pension
• 28 days of holiday including public holidays
• 1-5 days service award based on length of service
• Special rates for Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere colleagues and their friends & family and discount across Accor hotels worldwide
• And last but not least you will get to work with a team of EXTRAORDINARY people