General Manager – Leisure, Cocktail & Sports Bar Venue | Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire | Full Time | £35,000 - £40,000 per annum + Bonus
Our client is a dynamic and rapidly growing pub company with an impressive and diverse portfolio of venues across the UK, each designed for every kind of occasion.
The Role
As General Manager, you will lead a team of 15-20 employees, supported by a Deputy Manager and Bar Manager, with full responsibility for the day-to-day running of a 150-200 capacity leisure and hospitality venue.
This is a hands-on leadership role where you will have the autonomy to drive sales, develop events and partnerships, and play a key role in shaping the future growth of the brand as it expands into future locations.
You will receive support from Head Office, including an Operations Manager, Brand Manager, and Director, alongside full training and development opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive venue sales through proactive marketing initiatives, events, promotions, partnerships, and upselling strategies
- Develop and execute plans to increase footfall, repeat business, and customer spend
- Monitor and analyse sales performance, identifying opportunities for growth and improvement
- Take ownership of achieving and exceeding revenue, profitability, and KPI targets
- Build strong relationships within the local community and corporate sector to generate group bookings, events, and private hire opportunities
- Oversee daily venue operations, ensuring smooth and efficient service across the bar and leisure activities
- Maintain the highest standards of customer service, safety, cleanliness, and presentation
- Ensure all entertainment attractions are operated safely and in line with company procedures
- Manage stock control, purchasing, and cost management to maximise profitability
- Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety, food hygiene, and company policies
- Recruit, train, motivate, and develop a high-performing team
- Lead by example, creating a positive and energetic working culture
- Conduct regular performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and support
- Manage rotas and labour costs effectively while maintaining service standards
- Create an exciting, memorable, and welcoming atmosphere for all guests
- Handle customer feedback and resolve issues promptly and professionally
- Continuously seek ways to enhance the guest journey and entertainment offering
Requirements
Essential
- Previous experience as a General Manager, Venue Manager, or Senior Hospitality Manager
- Proven track record of driving sales growth and achieving commercial targets
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Experience managing high-volume hospitality operations
- Excellent communication and customer service abilities
- Strong financial awareness, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and peak trading periods
Desirable
- Experience within competitive socialising, leisure, entertainment, or activity-based venues
- Knowledge of cocktail-led bars and sports bar operations
- Personal Licence Holder
- Experience organising events, promotions, and corporate bookings
What’s In It For You
- Salary of £35,000 - £40,000 per annum
- Sales-related bonus scheme
- 20% staff discount
- Nest pension scheme
- Full training and development provided
- Live-in option available
- Opportunity to lead an exciting leis