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- Tasks: Lead a vibrant pub and restaurant, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and team motivation.
- Company: The Muddy Duck, an independent pub with a magical atmosphere in Hethe.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, pension, life assurance, and ongoing training.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and redefine culinary experiences in a welcoming environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive culture that values creativity and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
At The Muddy Duck, we are a proudly independent pub and restaurant nestled in the heart of Hethe, just north of Bicester. Our home sits beside the village church, surrounded by Oxfordshire countryside, and we have always believed a great local should feel both familiar and a little magical. Under one roof, you will find a proper pub where you can settle in with a pint and a meal, and a relaxed restaurant serving honest, great-tasting food. We have held onto the charm and character of a true village pub while creating spaces that feel special, welcoming, and full of personality. Our team is local, passionate, and dedicated to making every visit feel like coming home, whether you are here for a quiet drink, a long lunch/dinner, or a celebration!
About the Role
The General Manager will be the driving force behind the restaurant's success, leading the full operation with confidence, clarity, and a commitment to excellence. This role is hands-on and exists to ensure an exceptional guest experience, deliver strong financial performance, and inspire a motivated, high-performing team. The GM safeguards the venue's reputation, upholds operational and service standards, and maintains profitability, all while cultivating a warm, vibrant, and welcoming atmosphere that guests want to return to.
Location: Bicester surroundings
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Management
- Support the recruitment, training, and development of a high-performing front of house and back of house team.
- Create a positive, inclusive, and motivating work environment.
- Lead by example in service standards, professionalism, and guest engagement.
- Manage staff rotas, performance reviews, and succession planning.
- Ensure compliance with HR policies, right to work checks, and training requirements.
- Operational Management
- Oversee daily operations including opening/closing procedures, cash handling, and stock control.
- Ensure compliance with licensing laws, health & safety, food safety, and hygiene regulations.
- Maintain equipment, facilities, and supplier relationships.
- Implement and uphold company policies, SOPs, and brand standards.
- Financial & Commercial Performance
- Take full accountability for P&L performance.
- Manage budgets, forecasting, and cost control (labour, stock, utilities, waste).
- Analyse sales trends and implement strategies to increase revenue.
- Drive upselling, promotions, and events to maximise profitability.
- Monitor stock levels, conduct regular stocktakes, and minimise loss.
- Guest Experience & Service Standards
- Maintain consistently high service standards across all areas.
- Resolve guest issues promptly and professionally.
- Ensure the venue atmosphere, cleanliness, and presentation meet brand expectations.
- Drive guest satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
What We Are Looking For
- Proven experience as a General Manager or Assistant General Manager in a pub, bar, or restaurant.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent understanding of hospitality operations, licensing, and compliance.
- Highly commercially aware with strong financial leadership skills.
- Exceptional communication and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
- Passion for hospitality, food, drink, and creating memorable experiences.
Why Join Absolute Taste?
Working with us means joining a fast-growing, innovative company that is redefining culinary and event experiences. You will be part of a supportive, resilient team that values creativity, development, and having fun at work. We offer:
- 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays
- 3% pension
- Life assurance
- Thorough training and ongoing development
- A positive, empowering culture where your growth matters
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer.
General Manager in Bicester employer: Absolute Taste
Contact Detail:
Absolute Taste Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager in Bicester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, pop into The Muddy Duck for a drink or a meal. Familiarising yourself with the atmosphere and service will help you connect with the team and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips about the company culture and what it takes to succeed as a General Manager at The Muddy Duck.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed a team or improved guest satisfaction. Be ready to discuss how you can bring that magic to The Muddy Duck.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team and are serious about making The Muddy Duck a fantastic place for guests and staff alike.
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager in Bicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for hospitality shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for creating memorable experiences and how you can bring that magic to The Muddy Duck.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the General Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in the pub or restaurant industry. We’re looking for someone who can lead with confidence and clarity!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. We value authenticity and want to know what makes you unique. Share your story and how it aligns with our values at The Muddy Duck.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Absolute Taste
✨Know the Venue Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to visit The Muddy Duck if you can. Familiarise yourself with the atmosphere, menu, and overall vibe. This will not only help you understand the brand better but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a General Manager, your leadership approach is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your management style and how you motivate teams. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role involves managing P&L performance, brush up on your financial knowledge. Be ready to discuss how you've handled budgets, forecasting, and cost control in previous roles. Highlight any strategies you've implemented to boost revenue.
✨Emphasise Guest Experience
The Muddy Duck prides itself on exceptional guest experiences. Prepare to talk about how you would maintain high service standards and handle guest complaints. Share examples of how you've gone above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction in your previous positions.