Project Lead

Who Are Absolute Taste and What Do We Do?We are an innovative culinary and customer service provider, dedicated to delivering inspirational food and experiences that redefine customer satisfaction. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for pushing boundaries, we continue to grow from strength to strength.As a small, dynamic team of event professionals, we specialize in creating exciting, well-managed, and sustainable events, while fostering strong working relationships. We're looking for individuals who share our fun, resilient, and hardworking values to join our supportive, high-performing team.This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a highly regarded organisation dedicated to success and a positive, empowering culture.About The RoleWe are seeking an experienced Project Lead to join our dynamic team, leading the delivery of exceptional live events.The role is fully accountable for the strategic planning, financial control, and on-site delivery of Cadillac Trackside Hospitality catering across the F1 season.

Acting as the senior client lead, the role ensures world-class guest experience, operational excellence, and full alignment with Cadillac and Absolute Taste brand values.Your key responsibilities will be:Leadership & Client Management Overall project lead for Cadillac Trackside Hospitality catering, accountable for end-to-end deliveryPrimary senior contact for Cadillac stakeholders, building trusted and long-term client relationshipsLine manage a core team and lead wider team across planning and live deliveryAlways Act as an ambassador for Absolute Taste and the "face of the Cadillac brand"Maintain team morale and actively support the mental wellbeing of staffProject & Operational Delivery Own and manage project timelines, milestones, and planning documentationEnsure catering delivery consistently meets required service, quality, and brand standardsLead on-site hospitality operations across pre-event build, live race delivery, and pack-downAdapt leadership style to manage fast-moving teams in high-pressure environmentsIdentify operational efficiencies across food cost of sales, supplier networks, and resourcingEnsure compliance with WF1 standards, H&S, quality, and company codes of conductBudget & Financial Control Full accountability for Trackside Hospitality budgets, forecasting, and re-forecastingTrack and control all hospitality spend (F&B, labour, logistics, travel, equipment, flowers, etc.)Work closely with Finance, Operations Director, and Head Chef to ensure budget adherenceRaise POs, manage invoices, reconcile race-by-race spend, and support accurate invoicingPrepare budget reports and financial updates for senior managementMonitor food costs and seasonal price pressures, adapting plans to mitigate riskStrategy & Brand Experience Partner with Cadillac to define and deliver the Trackside Hospitality strategyUphold and evolve the hospitality identity: look & feel, food, beverage, and service styleSupport guest ranking systems and hosting protocols in collaboration with MarketingSupport filming, content capture, and brand storytelling opportunities where requiredCollaborate with the Head Chef on innovative yet practical menu development, aligned to local availabilityOn-Site DeliveryAttend approximately 12 F1 races and test events per seasonEnsure exceptional hospitality for race team personnel, senior management, drivers, and guestsLead or support supplier management, freight, set-up, and pack-down alongside logistics Maintain calm, decisive leadership in high-pressure, live-event environmentsContinuously identify opportunities to enhance guest experienceEnsure all reports, records, and post-event documentation are completedAttend post-event client debriefsPeople, Process & StandardsDevelop, implement, and communicate standard operating proceduresOversee recruitment, training, probation, and appraisals in line with WF1 standardsEnsure adequate staffing, equipment, and supplies in collaboration with Head Chef and Events leadershipSupervise teams with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and service excellenceRefresh kit and complete all required training during the off-seasonContinuously improve operational processesWhat We Are Looking For:Proven leader with full ownership of large-scale, high-profile event deliveryClient-facing expert able to build strong relationships with senior stakeholdersOperationally exceptional, thriving in fast-paced, high-pressure environmentsCommercially astute, confident managing budgets, costs, and financial performanceStrategic thinker who can shape and elevate a premium hospitality experienceCalm under pressure, decisive and solutions-focused on-sitePeople-focused, with the ability to inspire, lead, and develop high-performing teamsDetail-driven, committed to delivering world-class service and guest experienceWhy Join Us at Absolute Taste?Join a fast-growing and innovative company that is redefining customer experiences in the culinary and event space. We offer an empowering team culture, the opportunity to work on exciting, well-managed events, and a supportive, resilient team environment.We are committed to supporting your career growth with thorough training and ongoing development.You can also enjoy benefits such as:25 Days holiday + Bank Holiday3% PensionLife AssuranceEmployee Wellbeing ProgramIf you're ready to make an impact in a fast-paced environment and contribute to the success of Absolute Taste, apply today and join our team!We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer.REF-