At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant countryside venue, managing events and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
- Company: A unique hospitality destination with a relaxed atmosphere and thriving events calendar.
- Benefits: Work-life balance, casual environment, and supportive leadership structure.
- Other info: Enjoy 1 full weekend off every month and only 2 late nights per week.
- Why this job: Join a hands-on role where great food and events come together in a stunning setting.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in hospitality leadership and a passion for people-first service.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Are you ready to lead a beautiful countryside venue with personality, charm, and a thriving events calendar? We are currently looking for an exceptional General Manager to take the reins of this unique, relaxed hospitality destination. With its warm, informal atmosphere and stunning rural setting, this isn't your typical "suits and ties" operation - this is hospitality done differently.
The Role
As General Manager, you'll be responsible for the overall running of the venue, leading a strong leadership team and delivering outstanding guest experiences across both restaurant service and events. Kimbridge Barn hosts 50-60 weddings per year, with up to 100 guests seated, alongside a bustling food and beverage operation - making this a varied, rewarding, and hands-on leadership role.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading, inspiring, and developing a team of 4 Heads of Department
- Managing a team of 20-25 staff in the low season and 50-60 staff in the high season
- Overseeing day-to-day operations across restaurant and events
- Delivering exceptional service standards in a relaxed, countryside setting
- Managing a busy wedding calendar alongside a thriving F&B operation
- Driving financial performance and operational excellence
Why Join Us?
- Work-life balance that matters - only 2 days per week working past 6pm
- 1 full weekend off every month
- No suits - a casual, authentic environment
- Work with a supportive leadership structure within the company
What We're Looking For
- A proven General Manager or senior hospitality leader
- Experience in high-quality dining and/or events-led venues
- A natural leader who thrives in a hands-on, people-first environment
- Strong commercial awareness and organisational skills
- Someone who embraces a relaxed yet high-standard hospitality style
The Details
Hours: 48 hours over 5 days from 7. If you're passionate about hospitality, love the idea of leading a venue where great food, great events, and great people come together, and want a role that offers genuine balance - this could be your perfect next step.
Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.
General Manager - Event Venue - Southampton employer: Blue Arrow
Join a vibrant and unique hospitality venue just outside Southampton, where you can lead a passionate team in a relaxed and charming environment. With a strong focus on work-life balance, including only two late evenings per week and one full weekend off each month, this role offers an exceptional opportunity for personal and professional growth. Embrace the chance to create memorable experiences in a supportive atmosphere that values authenticity and high standards.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager - Event Venue - Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the hospitality industry, especially those who know the venue or similar places. A friendly chat can lead to insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Show up in style! If you can, visit the venue before applying. Get a feel for the atmosphere and vibe, and mention your experience when you apply. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research the venue's events, menu, and any recent news. This will help you stand out and show that you're ready to lead with passion and knowledge.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager - Event Venue - Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to express your passion for hospitality and what makes you a great fit for our relaxed environment.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in high-quality dining and events-led venues. We’re looking for someone who can lead with charm and expertise, so connect your past roles to what we do at Kimbridge Barn.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your skills and achievements are easy to spot. This helps us see how you can contribute to our team!
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 this fantastic opportunity to lead at Kimbridge Barn!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Arrow
✨Know the Venue Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the venue thoroughly. Understand its history, the types of events it hosts, and its unique selling points. This will not only impress the interviewers but also help you articulate how your vision aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a General Manager, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've inspired and developed teams in the past. Highlight your hands-on approach and how you foster a people-first environment, which is key for this role.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since driving financial performance is part of the job, come ready to discuss your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and improving profitability in previous roles. Use concrete numbers or outcomes to illustrate your success in managing operational excellence.
✨Embrace the Casual Atmosphere
This venue prides itself on a relaxed yet high-standard hospitality style. During the interview, reflect that vibe in your communication. Be authentic, personable, and show that you can balance professionalism with a laid-back approach, which is essential for fitting into their culture.
