At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the opening of a new restaurant and build an amazing team.
- Company: Bala Baya Group, known for bold Eastern Mediterranean dining in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Join a fast-growing group with a focus on culture and community.
- Why this job: Shape a new restaurant from the ground up and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About us: Bala Baya Group brings bold, Eastern Mediterranean-inspired dining to London, built on Chef Eran Tibi's own heritage and creative vision. Bala Baya's warm, family-rooted storytelling in Southwark is known for food and hospitality with no limits, and for building teams who genuinely welcome everyone through the door. We're now opening a new site, and looking for a General Manager to help shape it from the ground up.
The Role: This is a rare opportunity to open a new restaurant as part of an established, fast-growing group, building the team, the culture and the standards from day one, while carrying forward the values that make Bala Baya what it is. You'll take full commercial and operational ownership of the site, from pre-opening recruitment and training through to steady-state trading, reporting directly into the Group's leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
- Pre-opening: Lead recruitment, induction and training for the full front-of-house and management team ahead of launch.
- Work with the Group's People team and Head Chef to build rotas, service standards and SOPs specific to the new site.
- Support fit-out, supplier setup, licensing and pre-opening marketing activity alongside the wider opening team.
- Ongoing operations.
General Manager employer: Bala Baya
Bala Baya Group is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape a new restaurant in the vibrant Southwark area of London. With a strong emphasis on family-rooted storytelling and a welcoming work culture, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive within a fast-paced, supportive environment. The company prioritises team development and operational excellence, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Bala Baya. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bala Baya
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bala Baya directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Bala Baya and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bala Baya
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
