SEVEN new jobs are on offer for people passionate about Manchester. Major retailers in the city centre are recruiting a team of ‘City Host’ ambassadors who will roam the streets as informative guides for visitors.
Funded by the retailers, through the Heart of Manchester BID, the City Hosts will work seven days a week and be based in the main shopping districts of Market Street, Exchange Square, New Cathedral Street, St Ann’s Square and King Street.
The team of hosts will represent the best of Manchester and help present the city in the best possible light to visitors, shoppers, workers and residents.
They will be on hand to guide shoppers, visitors and workers, help with directions, public transport information and details on events taking place in the city centre.
The City Hosts will be the friendly face of the city and act as a point of contact for visitors and retailers alike. They will be on duty 363 days a year, and be easily identified by specially designed uniforms.
The Heart of Manchester BID is an independent not-for-profit company governed by a Board of city centre retailers and stakeholders. The business plan has been agreed during an 18 month consultation period and will be delivered on behalf of the BID Company by CityCo, Manchester’s city centre management company, reporting to the BID Board.
The team will undergo an intensive training programme designed to enable them to deliver exceptional customer service and be up to date with everything that’s happening in the city.
The training will be run in association with Manchester Arndale, Selfridges and the Manchester Tourist Information Centre.
New Cathedral St
Jane Sharrocks, General Manager of Selfridges Exchange Square said: “We’re looking for seven enthusiastic Mancunians who love their city and want to help others enjoy the city too.
"The team of hosts will represent the best of Manchester and help present the city in the best possible light to visitors, shoppers, workers and residents. They will also act as our eyes and ears on the streets, providing us with feedback on the visitor experience.”
Councillor Pat Karney, city centre spokesperson for Manchester City Council said: “It will be fantastic to have this new team, funded by the private sector. It will be an added asset for the city and we are very grateful to the retailers for this support.
“The City Hosts service will be Mancunian through and through. The team will be as passionate about the city as we are, and act as advocates, keen to tell overseas, national and local visitors about our historic roots, cultural identity and sporting heritage.
"They will be able to advise folk on the best shops, bars, attractions and restaurants, suggesting what would suit their needs and pocket.”
There are seven roles available - six customer service hosts and a Supervisor position. Candidates must demonstrate energy, enthusiasm and confidence - and a have passion for Manchester.
Those interested in the roles can email joinus@thewelcomepeople.com. The deadline for applications is 1 March 2013.
For more information visit www.heartofmanchester.com
