Explore COREcruitment jobs in the UK

Directeur de Restaurant Gastronomique H/F – Établissement de Prestige (Région PACA)L’ÉTABLISSEMENTRe... Directeur de Restaurant Gastronomique H/F – Établissement de Prestige (Région PACA)L’ÉTABLISSEMENTRejoignez une institution emblématique de la Riviera. Ce fleuron de l'hôtellerie de luxe situé dans le Sud-Est de la France recherche son futur Directeur de Salle H/F pour sa table gastronomique. Sous l'impulsion d'un Chef de renommée internationale, vous orchestrerez une expérience culinaire d'exception au sein d'un groupe reconnu pour ses valeurs humaines et son engagement envers l'épanouissement de ses collaborateurs.VOS MISSIONSRattaché(e) au Directeur de la Restauration, vous êtes le garant de l'excellence opérationnelle : Excellence du Service : Incarner l'art de recevoir, veiller à la satisfaction absolue des clients et au maintien de standards de la haute gastronomie.Management & Leadership : Encadrer, fédérer et former une brigade passionnée. Participer au recrutement et à la montée en compétences des équipes.Gestion & Pilotage : Assurer la gestion administrative et opérationnelle du point de vente, piloter les budgets et optimiser les coûts de fonctionnement.Standards : Définir et faire évoluer les normes de service en adéquation avec la vision du Chef. VOTRE PROFIL Diplômé(e) d’une école hôtelière avec une expérience confirmée et obligatoire sur un poste de Direction en restaurant gastronomique, établissement étoilé Michelin ou Palace.Passion pour le service et désir profond de transmettre l'art de recevoir au plus haut niveau.Capacité à être le leader d'une équipe dynamique : vous êtes un ambassadeur énergique, passionné et "hands-on".Une solide expérience en leadership et en gestion humaine, avec une aptitude naturelle à inspirer et fédérer vos collaborateurs.Excellentes compétences organisationnelles et rigueur administrative : vous possédez une maîtrise parfaite des contrôles opérationnels, de la gestion globale et du suivi de projets au sein d'un établissement de prestige.Maîtrise impérative du français et de l’anglais (une 3ème langue est un plus). LES CONDITIONS Contrat : CDI – Cadre autonome (216 jours).Rémunération : 58 500 € brut annuel (sur 13 mois) + indemnités nourriture.Avantages : Mutuelle, intéressement, participation.Rythme : Horaires sans coupure, 2 jours de repos consécutifs. Intéressé par ce super challenge ? Contactez Beatrice avec votre CV mis à jour

Learning & Development Manager – Luxury Hospitality GroupLocation: London Salary: Up to £80,000... Learning & Development Manager – Luxury Hospitality GroupLocation: London Salary: Up to £80,000 + benefitsA hospitality group is looking to appoint its first Learning & Development Manager - a newly created role designed to bring structure, ownership and long-term strategy to training across the business.The successful candidate will take responsibility for building the learning infrastructure across the group, bringing together existing resources, reviewing what works, and creating a clear, structured framework for training, leadership development and operational learning.The Role: Take full ownership of Learning & Development across the groupReview and organise existing training materialsBuild a clear and structured L&D framework for operations and leadership developmentDevelop training manuals and learning pathways for operational teams and managersDesign leadership development programmes and apprenticeship pathwaysIdentify and deliver early improvements while shaping a longer-term L&D strategyWork closely with senior leadership and operational teams to understand development needsDeliver and coordinate training across the businessPartner with external training providers for specialist programmes where requiredSupport senior leadership development initiatives and future growth plans The Person: Strong Learning & Development background within hospitality or luxury hospitalityExperience building or structuring L&D programmes rather than simply delivering trainingAble to bring together existing materials and create a clear, scalable learning frameworkComfortable working with senior leaders and operational teams across the businessCommercially aware and understands how training impacts operational performanceWell spoken, presentable and able to command a roomHigh levels of energy, credibility and personal presenceSelf-sufficientExperience in a luxury environment – you will have been operational in your past lives and really know what good looks and feels like Dream role right – get in touch – kate@corecruitment.com

Food Category Development Director – Leading Procurement Business – Hybrid - £110K + Benefits My cli... Food Category Development Director – Leading Procurement Business – Hybrid - £110K + Benefits My client is a leading procurement business who supply some of the most well-known businesses in UK hospitality and Foodservice.They are currently looking for a Food Category Development Director to join their team. The successful Food Category Development Director will lead the strategic development and commercial performance of all their food categories, owning end-to-end category strategy across core & specialist food categories, driving value for their clients through supplier partnerships, market intelligence, and innovative procurement strategies.This is the perfect opportunity for a high performing Category Development Director or Procurement Director to join a leading business who can match their ambition and offer great exposure and genuine opportunities.Responsibilities include: Develop and execute the category strategy across all food categories.Lead supplier sourcing, negotiation, and contract management to deliver best value and qualityManage and develop a team of category managers and buyersBuild strategic supplier relationships and lead joint business planningUse market insights and commodity analysis to inform pricing and procurement strategiesCollaborate with commercial and client teams to support client retention and growthIdentify cost-saving opportunities, product innovation, and supply chain efficienciesEnsure compliance with food safety, sustainability, and ethical sourcing standardsMonitor category performance, margins, and KPIs The Ideal Food Category Development Director Candidate: Senior level procurement experience within foodservice, hospitality, retail, or F&B distribution.Strong supplier negotiation and contract management skillsProven experience managing multiple food categoriesLeadership experience managing procurement/category teamsCommercially driven with strong financial acumenStrong stakeholder management and client-facing experience If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to Mikey at COREcruitment dot com / mikey@corecruitment.com

Membership Manager – Family members clubLocation               SW London Salary:                  £4... Membership Manager – Family members clubLocation               SW London Salary:                  £40,000+ Imagine a place where kids can have the time of their lives while parents relax, laugh, and reconnect — all under one roof. That’s what my client is building: a vibrant, hub for families, and they are looking for a Membership Manager who can make every member feel like part of something truly special.About the RoleAs our Membership Manager, you’ll be the heartbeat of the member experience — blending strategy, hospitality, and warmth into every interaction. Your focus? Growing our family community through thoughtful membership sales, building lasting relationships, and making sure every visit feels better than the last.You’ll work closely with the General Manager and Events Team to create unforgettable experiences, while leading the front-of-house crew to deliver top‑tier service with smiles all round.What You’ll Be Doing Champion the full membership journey — from that first curious enquiry to welcoming new families into our community.Dream up and deliver exciting member events and activities that keep our community buzzing and growing.Be a friendly problem‑solver, handling queries and feedback with empathy, charm, and efficiency.Oversee bookings, calls, emails, and admin with professionalism and attention to detail.Lead a welcoming front‑of‑house team that makes every arrival feel like coming home.Keep leadership in the loop with accurate membership reports and insights.Train, motivate, and support your team to shine in every interaction. Experience At least 2 years’ experience in membership management, sales, or guest relations — ideally in a luxury hospitality or private members’ environment.A knack for connecting with people — from tiny toddlers to seasoned executives.Excellent communication and diplomacy skills, with the ability to turn challenges into opportunities.Smart time‑management and multitasking skills — because every day is different.A problem‑solver’s mindset with a “big‑picture” approach.Fluency in multiple languages is a plus (bonus points for Arabic!).A clear Enhanced DBS check. This is more than a job — it’s a chance to help shape magical moments for families, every single day. For more details contact david@corecruitment.com

Assistant General Manager – Luxury Boutique Hotel, Isle of Wight Competitive Salary + Benefits + Re... Assistant General Manager – Luxury Boutique Hotel, Isle of Wight Competitive Salary + Benefits + Relocation PackageAre you an experienced hospitality professional ready to take the next step in your career? Do you have a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences and leading a high-performing team? We are seeking a dynamic Assistant General Manager to join a luxury boutique hotel on the stunning Isle of Wight.This luxury boutique hotel offers a unique and bespoke service, with a strong commitment to delivering a memorable and high-end experience for all guests. The hotel is renowned for its tranquil setting on the Isle of Wight, offering a blend of modern luxury and exceptional hospitality. The Assistant General Manager will work closely with the General Manager, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the hotel, ensuring high standards are maintained across all departments, and contributing to the continued success of the business. The role will involve leading a dedicated team, improving operational efficiencies, and ensuring the guest experience is second to none.Responsibilities: Support the General Manager in leading and motivating a dedicated team to deliver exceptional serviceOversee front-of-house operations, ensuring the highest standards of guest serviceAssist with financial management, budgeting, and achieving revenue targetsMonitor guest feedback and implement improvements to enhance the guest experienceManage day-to-day hotel operations, including staffing, reservations, housekeeping, and maintenanceDevelop and implement effective training programs to upskill the teamDrive operational efficiency and cost control while maintaining the hotel’s luxury standardsEnsure compliance with all health and safety regulationsAssist with event and conference coordination as required Requirements: Proven experience in a managerial role within the luxury hospitality sector (Assistant Manager, Deputy Manager, Operations Manager, etc.)Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and manage a diverse teamStrong business acumen and the ability to manage budgets, cost controls, and operational efficiencyA passion for creating memorable guest experiences and attention to detailPrevious experience in front-of-house, F&B, or hotel managementFlexible, proactive, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environmentKnowledge of hotel management software (e.g., Opera, Reslynx, etc.) is desirableA positive, can-do attitude and a commitment to excellence

Managing Director – Luxury Hospitality and leisure – London Location - London, Salary £170,000 – £22... Managing Director – Luxury Hospitality and leisure – London Location - London, Salary £170,000 – £220,000 + BonusFuture CEO Opportunity (18–24 months)We are seeking a Managing Director to run a London-based smaller luxury hospitality, leisure business, with a clear pathway to CEO if the right person is in place. This role offers full operational ownership, working closely with the Founder and Creative Director, leading day-to-day operations, driving growth, and maintaining the brand’s high standards. Success in this role would require someone who had growth a business and can bring fresh ideas to this business and lead from the frontApplicants must come from a luxury hospitality background, ideally high-end hospitality, premium leisure, luxury leisure The Managing Director Role Run the entire London operation, managing day-to-day business with autonomy – MD – OD level Shape business strategy, including finance, marketing, and operationsBuild and support senior management teams, ensuring operational excellenceImplement SOPs and operational frameworks across all functionsLead growth initiatives: expansion, acquisitions, and new revenue streamsMaintain high functional service levels aligned with the luxury brandHands-on leadership, working with teams and owners on key decisionsDeliver financial and operational KPIs, driving strong commercial performance The Ideal Candidate MD, Operations Director, or Cluster/Regional Director in luxury hospitality Strong C-suite/senior leadership experience, ideally London and European markets is a bonusProven record in operational management, business growth, and profitabilityComfortable running day-to-day operations and problem-solvingStrong financial acumen and experience with multi-revenue businessesEntrepreneurial, hands-on, able to work with creative leadershipAmbitious to grow into CEO in 18–24 months Please send your CV to me at Stuart Hills or call 0207 790 2666Follow COREcruitment on your favourite social networks - Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram

We’re looking for a driven, results-focused Partnership Sales Manager to help expand our national ne... We’re looking for a driven, results-focused Partnership Sales Manager to help expand our national network through new partnerships within the Public Sector. In this role, you’ll be responsible for identifying and engaging potential partners, negotiating commercial agreements, and playing a key part in driving long-term growth. To be considered, you must have a proven track record of selling into the Public Sector. What You’ll Do Secure new partner locations and contribute to annual revenue growth.Build relationships with building owners, franchise operators, and industry players.Generate and manage leads through networking, outreach, and cold-calling.Present partnership opportunities and guide prospects from first contact to signed contracts.Collaborate with internal teams to finalize commercial agreements.Spend time in the field meeting clients and closing deals.  What We’re Looking For Proven experience in B2B sales or business development, ideally in a fast-paced environment.A self-starterwho can independently generate leads and close deals.Strong track record of securing high-value partnerships or investmentsExcellent communication and presentation skills.Confident under pressure, with strong business and financial acumen.  You’ll be part of an ambitious, high-performing sales team with excellent opportunities for career growth, performance rewards, and personal development.

Employee Relations Manager- London £45/50k London | Hospitality | Multi-Site OperationsSalary: £45,0... Employee Relations Manager- London £45/50k London | Hospitality | Multi-Site OperationsSalary: £45,000 – £50,000 plus bonus and benefits.We are working with a popular and fast-growing London bar and late-night hospitality group to recruit an experienced Employee Relations Manager to join their People team. This is a key role responsible for leading and managing complex employee relations matters across a large multi-site hospitality estate and central support functions. The role ensures ER cases are handled fairly, consistently, and in line with UK employment law, while balancing commercial priorities and protecting the company’s culture and brand reputation. Working closely with Operational Leaders and the Support Office, you will provide expert guidance on employee relations matters, mitigate risk, and help build management capability across the business.Key Responsibilities Lead complex ER cases end-to-end including disciplinary, grievance, performance, probation, absence, and investigation processesProvide practical and commercially sound advice aligned to UK employment law and ACAS Code of PracticeSupport or conduct investigations and formal hearings where requiredDraft clear and defensible outcome documentationGuide managers through challenging conversations and decision makingWork with senior People leaders and external legal advisors on high-risk or complex mattersEnsure ER processes remain consistent, fair, and legally compliant across the businessSupport protected conversations and settlement discussions where appropriateDevelop ER capability across General Managers, Operations Managers, and central teamsDeliver practical ER training and coaching to managers to strengthen decision making and early interventionMonitor ER case trends and provide insight and reporting to senior leadershipContribute to policy development and ensure people practices remain practical for a fast-paced late-night hospitality environment Experience Required Significant employee relations experience within multi-site hospitality is essentialStrong and up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law and ACAS guidanceProven experience managing complex and high-risk ER cases end-to-endExperience partnering with senior operational stakeholdersCIPD Level 5 or above This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ER professional with a hospitality background who enjoys partnering with operational leaders and working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.Contact Stuart Hills or call 0207 79 02666

Operations Director – £100k - Luxury restaurants – London  2 stunning sites in the UK and expanding... Operations Director – £100k - Luxury restaurants – London  2 stunning sites in the UK and expanding keen to bring in senior talent as they grow.MUST have luxury experience, amazing opportunity for the right candidate Our client is looking for an Operations Director to come on board and oversee this amazing company as they are expanding, they are looking to expand the business. This role is full on and will require you to be a self-starter and be incredibly adaptable, someone commercially aware of the hospitality space that can lead from the front, work with the founders and help ad valve across the business.My client is looking for a hands-on candidate who has operated in restaurants at a senior level, you will understand how restaurants and/or hotels work from the ground up, you will be comfortable with implementing procedures and process, and will enjoy a fast-paced lifestyle.Ideal candidates would have worked for branded and independent operations in a quality forward thinking environment. Strong passion for brand, quality food and wine, guest obsessed and dynamic in your approach.You will have strong commercial awareness, a finger on the pulse and a strong eye for detail and change.Our client is looking for stability and progression within your CV – you will be ambitious but reliable and loyal. There is HUGE learning potential with this company and a great opportunity** Please note only senior candidates will be contacted with the relevant experience for our client.Interested in this challenge - send your CV to Stuart Hills or call 0207 790 2666

Restaurant Manager – Edinburgh – £34,000The Role:We are currently recruiting for a passionate and ex... Restaurant Manager – Edinburgh – £34,000The Role:We are currently recruiting for a passionate and experienced Restaurant Manager for a busy and well-loved venue in Edinburgh. Our client is looking for a strong leader who thrives in a high-volume environment and is genuinely guest-focused. The ideal candidate will bring energy, enthusiasm, and a warm, engaging personality to the role, while driving the team to deliver outstanding service.Key Requirements: Proven experience managing high-volume restaurantsA guest-first approach with a focus on creating great experiencesConfident leadership and people management skillsEnthusiastic, bubbly, and approachable personalityAbility to motivate, train, and lead a team effectivelyP&L knowledge If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to Kate B OR call 0207 790 2666kateb@corecruitment.com

Calling all Bar AGM & Deputy Managers – London – £45/55,000Plan Your 2026 Move! Then drop me a l... Calling all Bar AGM & Deputy Managers – London – £45/55,000Plan Your 2026 Move! Then drop me a line, I have some great roles on in some epic companies. don’t miss out Now’s the perfect time to get ahead and start planning your next move for 2026I’m working with a selection of award-winning, expanding bar and restaurant groups across London, from well-known branded concepts to exciting independent venues. We have a variety of AGM, Restaurant Manager and Deputy Manager roles available, offering real responsibility, development opportunities, and the chance to shape your career.If you’re experienced, ambitious, and passionate about delivering exceptional dining experiences, this could be your chance for a fresh start. My clients are in strong, stable positions, opening new sites across the city, and they value people who bring energy, leadership, and creativity to the table.If you’re an enthusiastic manager with at least 1–2 years’ experience, understand P&L, love leading teams, and have a passion for hospitality, I want to hear from you. Time is moving fast – drop me your CV and secure your next role in 2026!Send your CV now to explore the available roles and secure your next exciting step: Stuart Hills – 0207 790 2666If you are looking for a NEW ROLE, then send me your CV to find out more about the roles available. Stuart Hills or call 0207 790 2666

Freetrade Sales Manager – Reputable Foodservice Business - £Competitive Salary + Benefits  My client... Freetrade Sales Manager – Reputable Foodservice Business - £Competitive Salary + Benefits  My client is a well-established Foodservice business who have a fantastic reputation for their top-quality products and level of service which they provide to a number of different sectors.They are seeking a Freetrade Sales Manager to join their team. The successful Freetrade Sales Manager will be responsible for developing and managing relationships with independent hospitality operators and wholesalers within your territory. This is a highly commercial role focused on growing sales, expanding distribution, and delivering profitable growth across the freetrade channel and you will work closely with internal commercial, marketing, and operations teams to ensure outstanding service and successful execution of sales initiatives.This is the perfect opportunity for a talented and highly driven Business Development Manager or Sales Manager join an exciting business who can match their ambition and offer genuine career progression opportunities.Responsibilities include: Manage and grow an existing portfolio of freetrade customers including pubs, bars, restaurants and hospitality venues.Identify and secure new business opportunities to expand distribution and increase sales.Deliver against agreed sales, volume and margin targets.Implement territory plans to maximise growth opportunities within the freetrade sector.Build strong long-term relationships with customers and key decision makers.Conduct regular customer visits to understand needs and identify opportunities for range expansion.Deliver compelling sales presentations, product launches and promotional activity.Monitor sales performance and analyse data to identify trends and growth opportunities.Manage pricing, promotions and commercial agreements within company guidelines.Provide regular reporting on pipeline activity, performance and market insights.Identify emerging trends and competitor activity within the hospitality and foodservice sectors.Represent the business at trade shows, customer events and industry networking opportunities.Work closely with marketing teams to activate brand campaigns in the market. The Ideal Freetrade Sales Manager Candidate: Proven experience in field sales, business development or account management within foodservice or FMCG industry.Strong understanding of independent sales and a track record delivering in freetrade / hospitality market.Demonstrated success in delivering sales growth and winning new business.Excellent negotiation, communication and relationship-building skills.Highly organised with strong commercial awareness.Full UK driving licence If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to Mikey at COREcruitment dot com / mikey@corecruitment.com

Procurement Director EMEA– Leading Hospitality Business – London - £150K + My client is a leading gl... Procurement Director EMEA– Leading Hospitality Business – London - £150K + My client is a leading global hospitality business.They are currently looking for a Procurement Director to join their team. The successful Procurement Director will be responsible for developing and executing a best-in-class procurement strategy across the EMEA region. This role will drive value through strategic sourcing, supplier partnerships, cost optimisation, and sustainable procurement practices while supporting operational teams across multiple locations. You will lead regional procurement teams, manage key supplier relationships, and collaborate with executive stakeholders to ensure procurement aligns with the business’s growth ambitions and service standards.This is the perfect opportunity for a high performing Procurement Director to join a leading business who can match their ambition and offer great exposure and genuine opportunities.Responsibilities include: Develop and implement the EMEA procurement strategy aligned with company objectives and expansion plans.Lead strategic sourcing initiatives across key spend categories including food & beverage, operating supplies & equipment (OS&E), furniture fixtures & equipment (FF&E), technology, and services.Deliver measurable cost savings, value creation, and risk mitigation across the supply chain.Build and manage strategic supplier partnerships across the EMEA region.Implement best-in-class procurement processes, governance, and systems.Drive sustainability, ethical sourcing, and ESG initiatives within procurement.Partner with hotel operations, finance, development, and culinary teams to ensure procurement solutions support operational excellence.Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing regional procurement team.Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and supply chain risks to ensure resilience and competitiveness.Support new property openings and refurbishment projects through effective sourcing and supplier management. The Ideal Procurement Director Candidate: Proven experience in a senior procurement role within a Hospitality, FMCG, or multi-site consumer business.Proven experience managing regional or international procurement across the EMEA region.Exceptional knowledge across all hospitality categories including Food, Beverage, FF&E, OS&E and Services.Experience leading procurement transformation, systems implementation, or process optimisation.Strong understanding of supply chain risk management and sustainability in procurement.Commercially driven with strong financial acumenExceptional stakeholder management and influencing skills at executive level.  If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to Mikey at COREcruitment dot com / mikey@corecruitment.com

Job Title: Events Manager – Pubs & Venues Salary: Up to £50,000+ Location: Southeast EnglandMy c... Job Title: Events Manager – Pubs & Venues Salary: Up to £50,000+ Location: Southeast EnglandMy client looking for an energetic Events Manager to join a growing pub and venue group in the Southeast of England. If you love creating unforgettable experiences, running events from start to finish, and keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes, this role is for you.The Role Take ownership of events from enquiry to delivery – weddings, parties, corporate functions, and morePlan, coordinate, and lead events on-site, working closely with F&B, Operations, and venue teamsManage contracts, budgets, deposits, and event logistics to hit commercial targetsBe the go-to person for clients during events, ensuring everything runs perfectlyBuild strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal teamsKeep multiple events on track, juggling timelines, staffing, and resources like a proReport on performance, spot opportunities to improve, and contribute to the overall events strategy About You Experience running events in pubs, hotels, or venues – from small parties to large functionsHands-on, organised, and confident managing multiple events at onceGreat with people – both clients and teamsCommercially minded, with a keen eye on budgets and revenueFlexible and happy to work evenings and weekends as requiredSolutions-focused, proactive, and always ready to roll up your sleeves Benefits Competitive salary plus bonusOpportunity to run and shape the events programme across multiple venuesCareer progression in a growing and ambitious groupStaff discounts and other great benefits If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to ed@Corecruitment.comGet social…….http://www.corecruitment.com/https://www.facebook.com/COREcruitmentDOTcom/Tweet us @COREcruitment 

Membership Sales Manager – Luxury Wellness Members’ Club Central London Up to £55,000 + Service Char... Membership Sales Manager – Luxury Wellness Members’ Club Central London Up to £55,000 + Service ChargeWe are working with an exciting new luxury wellness members’ club launching in Central London, and we are looking for an experienced Membership Sales Manager to play a key role in building and growing the founding community.This is a fantastic opportunity to join a high-end lifestyle and wellness concept from the very beginning, helping to shape the membership base and drive commercial success in one of London’s most exciting upcoming openings.As Membership Sales Manager, you will lead the club’s membership acquisition strategy, building relationships with prospective members and ensuring a seamless and personalised sales journey from first enquiry through to onboarding.You will be responsible for driving membership growth, managing the sales pipeline, hosting site tours, and working closely with leadership and marketing to position the club within London’s luxury wellness and lifestyle market.Responsibilities Drive membership sales and revenue growth in line with pre-opening and ongoing targetsManage and nurture the membership pipeline, converting enquiries into long-term membersHost private tours, events, and discovery appointments for prospective membersBuild relationships with high-net-worth individuals, local businesses, and community networksWork closely with marketing on campaigns, partnerships, and events to attract new membersMaintain an exceptional luxury guest experience throughout the membership journeyProvide regular sales reporting and insights to the Membership Director Requirements Proven experience in membership sales, private clubs, luxury hospitality, wellness, or lifestyle brandsStrong network or understanding of the Central London luxury marketA natural relationship builder with excellent communication and sales skillsPassionate about wellness, lifestyle, and community-driven spacesHighly organised, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-paced pre-opening environment