At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams across Norfolk's inns and hospitality venues.
- Company: Chestnut operates a collection of admired pubs, inns, and restaurants in East England.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible hours, team discounts, and wellness support.
- Why this job: Join a values-led business that champions local hospitality and community spirit.
- Qualifications: Experience in multi-site operations and a passion for Norfolk's culture required.
- Other info: Be part of a growing team with opportunities for personal and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
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We’re looking for a personable and experienced Operations
Manager to join our team and lead a portfolio of distinctive inns and
hospitality venues across Norfolk. This is an exciting opportunity for a
thoughtful, people-focused leader with a deep appreciation for the region —
someone who sets high standards, empowers others, and champions heartfelt
hospitality.
Who We Are
At Chestnut, we’re proud to own and operate a growing
collection of pubs, inns and restaurants rooted in the East of England —
including some of Norfolk’s most admired destinations. From coastal hideaways
to countryside retreats, every property reflects its setting and community.
Together, we deliver genuine hospitality grounded in real people, real places,
and a real love for what we do.
As a business, we’re evolving — expanding our collection,
investing in our people, and introducing new initiatives that enhance the guest
and team experience. But throughout, we remain true to the spirit of each
venue: proudly independent, locally led, and full of character.
The Role
As Operations Manager, you’ll lead a group of Norfolk-based
venues, working closely with General Managers and their teams to elevate the
guest experience, grow performance, and foster a culture of care and
collaboration. You’ll be a key voice in driving progress — supporting the
rollout of company initiatives while respecting and retaining each property\’s
individual charm.
This is a hands-on, strategic role for someone who thrives
on mentoring others, managing change with sensitivity, and contributing to a
dynamic, values-led business.
Key Responsibilities
- Inspire,
coach, and develop General Managers to lead high-performing, guest-focused
teams - Uphold
standards of quality and consistency across food, drink, service and
accommodation - Drive
performance through strategic planning, forecasting and hands-on
leadership - Collaborate
closely with our central teams across people, finance, marketing and
operations - Champion
and embed new business initiatives in a way that complements local
identity - Identify
and implement meaningful improvements in guest experience and team
development - Be a
proud ambassador for Chestnut’s culture, community focus, and commitment
to local, sustainable hospitality
What We’re Looking For
- Proven
experience leading multi-site operations in hospitality or premium
lifestyle venues - A
natural people-leader with a nurturing approach and strong coaching
mindset - Commercially
confident, with sound understanding of budgeting, forecasting and P&L
control - A
passion for Norfolk – its landscapes, producers and communities – and a
desire to help it thrive - Calm,
flexible, and solutions-driven with a hands-on attitude and strategic
outlook - Comfortable
managing change and aligning diverse teams around shared goals - Based
in or near Norfolk with a full UK driving licence and willingness to
travel regularly
What We Offer
- A leadership role within a
growing, values-led business with local roots - The opportunity to shape
and support a talented, passionate group of teams - Competitive salary £70,000 OTE
- Team & Individual
Incentives– Enjoy rewards for your hard work, including staff days
out and even trips abroad. - Bonus Schemes–
Performance-based rewards to recognise your contribution. - Employee Assistance Programme
(EAP)– Free, confidential support for wellbeing, finances, and more. - Team Parties & Social
Events– Regular events to connect, relax, and celebrate together. - Work Anniversary Rewards–
Your commitment is celebrated every year. - Refer a Friend Scheme–
Recommend a friend and earn a cash bonus when they join us. - Wine Discounts–
Enjoy exclusive pricing on carefully selected wines. - Family & Friends Discounts–
Share special perks with those you care about. - Team Discounts – Up to 50% offyour
food bill at our venues. - Overnight Stays from £75–
Take a break at any Chestnut property at a reduced rate. - High Street Discounts–
Save on retail, dining, and travel with exclusive deals. - Flexible Hours– We
help you maintain a healthy work-life balance. - Learning & Development–
Grow your career with access toaccredited training coursesand
continuous development opportunities.
Love Norfolk. Love hospitality. Love leading with
purpose.
Help shape the future of East Anglian hospitality with Chestnut.
Apply now and become part of something truly special.
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Operations Manager employer: Chestnut
Contact Detail:
Chestnut Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the unique characteristics of Norfolk and its hospitality scene. Understanding local culture and community values will help you connect with the team and guests, showcasing your genuine passion for the region.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Chestnut to gain insights into their operations and company culture. This can provide you with valuable information that can be used during discussions and interviews, demonstrating your commitment and interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led multi-site operations in the past. Highlight your experience in mentoring teams and driving performance, as these are key aspects of the Operations Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your strategic planning skills by thinking about potential initiatives you could implement at Chestnut. Presenting thoughtful ideas during your interview can set you apart as a proactive candidate who is ready to contribute from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in hospitality and operations management. Focus on your leadership skills, ability to drive performance, and any specific achievements that demonstrate your capability to manage multi-site operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for Norfolk and the hospitality industry. Mention how your values align with Chestnut's commitment to local, sustainable hospitality and provide examples of how you've inspired teams in previous roles.
Showcase Your People Skills: In your application, emphasise your nurturing approach and coaching mindset. Provide specific examples of how you've developed high-performing teams and fostered a culture of care and collaboration in past positions.
Highlight Strategic Thinking: Demonstrate your strategic planning abilities by discussing how you've previously driven performance through forecasting and budgeting. Include any relevant metrics or outcomes that showcase your success in these areas.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chestnut
✨Show Your Passion for Hospitality
Make sure to express your genuine love for the hospitality industry and specifically for Norfolk. Share personal experiences that highlight your connection to the region and how it influences your approach to guest service.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in previous roles. Discuss your coaching style and how you empower others to achieve high performance, as this is crucial for the Operations Manager position.
✨Understand the Business Metrics
Familiarise yourself with key financial concepts such as budgeting, forecasting, and P&L control. Be ready to discuss how you've used these skills to drive performance in past roles, as this will show your commercial confidence.
✨Emphasise Adaptability and Problem-Solving
Be prepared to share instances where you've managed change effectively or solved complex problems in a hospitality setting. Highlight your calm and flexible approach, which is essential for aligning diverse teams around shared goals.