Behind-the-scenes Newcastle United recruitment drive shows club’s levelling up ambitions

Newcastle United hospitality provider Sodexo is looking to cement its reputation as the best in the country with a huge recruitment drive.

The team who work behind the bars and in the suites at St. James' Park recently won the Matchday Hospitality Award for Large Stadiums at the Stadium Events and Hospitality Awards.

The group beat competition at Manchester City's Etihad Stadium, Spurs' swanky new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Liverpool's prestigious Anfield.

Sodexo is aligning its ambitions with the club's current lofty trajectory and has launched a big recruitment drive this summer.

There are roles for both front-of-house and back-of-house staff, including chefs, kitchen porters, cellar staff, bar staff, service staff and kiosk staff.

There are also a number of management roles including bar supervisors, team leaders, stand managers and room managers.

The roles are being offered on a casual basis given the nature of the work and frequency of games with hiring bosses touting them as perfect for students or those looking for a second job.

There is, however, extra work available outside of matchdays with frequent conferences, exhibitions, parties and more happening at St. James' Park as the stadium remains a cornerstone in the local community.

Earlier this year Newcastle United became a Living Wage Employer in a move that was praised by local authority figures.

MP for Newcastle-upon-Tyne Central Chi Onwurah praised United for "leading the way" and encouraging other employers to do the same.

The club voluntarily applied to the Foundation and, as a result, all employees at the club will receive a minimum hourly rate of £9.90 per hour.

That is a higher rate than the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage.

A statement from Newcastle United at the time read: "We recognise that our people, including staff – the majority of whom live in our local community – and our fans, are at the heart of everything we do.

"We appreciate the contribution of all employees and acknowledge that the everyday operations of the club, including matchdays, could not happen without their hard work and dedication.

"Newcastle United is fully committed to supporting them, including through wages that reflect their value and meet the everyday needs of individuals and their families – not just the government minimum."

You can find out more about the roles available with Sodexo and apply here.