General Manager

General Manager

Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
BAO

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a vibrant restaurant team and create joyful guest experiences.
  • Company: BAO Shoreditch, a fun and creative dining destination in East London.
  • Benefits: Growth opportunities, work-life balance, and generous discounts on food and drink.
  • Other info: Enjoy unique perks like trips to Taiwan and personalised development plans.
  • Why this job: Be a key player in a dynamic environment that values kindness and team culture.
  • Qualifications: Experience in hospitality leadership and a passion for food and service.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

BAO Shoreditch is looking for a General Manager to lead the team with kindness, consistency, and a passion for creating joyful guest experiences. At BAO, we care about doing things properly - from the service we give to the way we support our teams. As General Manager, you’ll be the driving force behind one of our restaurants, leading the team day‑to‑day and creating an environment where people feel inspired to do their best work. You’ll take ownership of the restaurant’s performance, balancing the guest experience with team culture and business results. You’ll coach, guide, and motivate your managers and front‑line teams, ensuring that service runs smoothly and with warmth - all while keeping an eye on the bigger picture. This is a leadership role for someone who thrives in hospitality, brings consistency and kindness to their management style, and is motivated by seeing both people and businesses grow.

The restaurant is tucked into East London’s creative hub, BAO Shoreditch takes its cue from the bustling beef noodle shops of Taiwan - reimagined with a playful, London twist. Upstairs, guests enjoy rich bowls of beef noodle soup, signature BAOs, and a menu full of bold Taiwanese flavours. Downstairs, there’s a bar and private KTV room, a unique space for late‑night drinks, group dining, and the occasional sing‑along. It brings a fun, unexpected layer to the Shoreditch experience.

The Position

  • Leading the restaurant team - setting the tone, energy, and pace across both service and operations
  • Building and developing a culture where the team feels supported, proud, and motivated
  • Driving performance by balancing guest experience, people development, and financial results
  • Supporting and coaching your management team (Assistant GMs, Supervisors, and beyond)
  • Working closely with Operations and the wider BAO team to deliver projects and initiatives
  • Upholding high standards across hospitality, food quality, and compliance

What we’re looking for:

  • Experience leading a busy, high‑quality hospitality business
  • A natural leader who coaches with kindness and consistency
  • Strong organisational and financial management skills
  • Someone who thrives on creating joyful guest experiences and strong team cultures
  • A love of food, drink, and hospitality - and a desire to keep learning and improving

The Benefits

We want working at BAO to feel like stepping into a warm, fluffy bao - soft, supportive, and full of good stuff. Here’s what you can look forward to:

  • Growth & Development
    • A supportive, people‑first culture
    • Access to the School of BAO, a series of talks, workshops and fieldtrips
    • Personalised development plans to help you shape your future
  • Work‑Life Balance
    • 6 shifts across 5 days, with a maximum of one double shift
    • Paid overtime
    • Up to 50% off food and drink across all BAO restaurants and discounts across friends in the industry
    • Access to curated wine and meat suppliers at trade prices
    • A chance to visit Taiwan and immerse yourself in the food and culture that inspires everything we do
    • Extra holiday and perks to celebrate work anniversaries and milestones

General Manager employer: BAO

BAO Shoreditch is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and people-first culture, making it a fantastic place for those passionate about hospitality. With a focus on personal growth through the School of BAO and a commitment to work-life balance, employees enjoy generous benefits including discounts, paid overtime, and opportunities for cultural immersion in Taiwan. The vibrant atmosphere of East London enhances the experience, allowing team members to thrive in a creative and dynamic environment while delivering joyful guest experiences.

BAO

Contact Details:

BAO Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land General Manager

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the hospitality industry, especially those who might know someone at BAO. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the team culture.

Tip Number 2

Show your passion for hospitality during interviews. Share stories that highlight your experience in creating joyful guest experiences and how you've supported your teams. We love hearing about real-life examples!

Tip Number 3

Be prepared to discuss how you balance guest experience with team culture and business results. Think of specific strategies you've used in the past to drive performance while keeping the atmosphere warm and inviting.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the BAO family.

We think you need these skills to ace General Manager

Leadership
Team Management
Organisational Skills
Financial Management
Guest Experience Enhancement
Coaching and Mentoring
Performance Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Hospitality:When writing your application, let your love for the hospitality industry shine through. Share experiences that highlight your commitment to creating joyful guest experiences and how you’ve fostered a positive team culture in the past.

Be Authentic and Personal:We want to get to know the real you! Use your application to tell your story and express your management style. Highlight moments where you've led with kindness and consistency, as this aligns perfectly with our values at BAO.

Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your experience in leading busy, high-quality hospitality businesses. Include specific examples of how you've balanced guest satisfaction with team development and financial results to demonstrate your capability.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the BAO family!

How to prepare for a job interview at BAO

Know the BAO Vibe

Before your interview, dive into the BAO culture. Familiarise yourself with their menu, values, and the overall atmosphere they create. This will help you connect your experience to their mission of delivering joyful guest experiences.

Showcase Your Leadership Style

Prepare examples that highlight your leadership approach, especially how you coach and motivate teams with kindness and consistency. Think about specific situations where you've turned challenges into opportunities for growth.

Balance is Key

Be ready to discuss how you balance guest experience with team culture and financial results. Share strategies you've used in the past to ensure both guests and staff feel valued and supported.

Ask Thoughtful Questions

Prepare insightful questions that show your genuine interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their team development initiatives or how they maintain high standards in hospitality. This demonstrates your commitment to their values.