At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a luxury hotel team to deliver exceptional guest experiences and exceed financial goals.
- Company: Hand Picked Hotels, a family-owned collection of unique luxury retreats.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, pension scheme, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Join a company committed to sustainability and community values.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team creating magical stays in stunning locations.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a General Manager in luxury hotels with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Hand Picked Hotels was founded in 2001 by owner and Chairman Julia Hands MBE, and today still remains a family‑owned group which has 21 unique luxury country houses and coastal retreats, each hand‑picked for their individuality.
Architecturally distinctive and quintessentially British, every hotel boasts an extraordinary location from Scotland to the Channel Islands, offering breathtaking views from vast countryside to expansive beaches to lush woodlands.
Dedicated to creating unique and enchanting stays, curated personalised service runs through the heart of every hotel.
Whilst each hotel is individual, each property fulfils the company values of family, individuality, community and care, with a team commitment to aiming higher and delighting their guests with magical experiences that offer a true escape from the everyday.
Hand Picked Hotels are committed to protecting the environment for a sustainable future, and all of our hotels have received the ‘Green Tourism’ accreditation.
A recognition of our progress in reducing energy use and waste, supporting biodiversity, and sourcing responsibly from local and ethical partners.
Due to a recent internal promotion, we are currently recruiting for a General Manager for Chilston Park Hotel in Kent, this stunning 4‑Red‑Star Hotel is revered for its unique style and historical antiques, some as old as the 17th century manor house.
As the General Manager you will be responsible for providing inspirational and dynamic leadership to your colleagues at an exciting time in Hand Picked Hotels’ journey to be recognised as the leading British collection of exclusive hotels delivering exceptional personal service.
About the role
- As General Manager you will be fully accountable for exceeding guest expectations, delivering and exceeding the financial goals and objectives alongside team management.
- The General Manager is responsible for leading the hotel team to continually strengthen Hand Picked Hotels reputation in the market for hospitality, with service, excellence and consistency always being front and centre.
- As the owner of the Hotel's P&L, you will be an experienced innovator who enjoys leading from the front with passion, heart and soul inspiring, motivating, coaching and developing your colleagues so they reach their maximum potential.
- You will be responsible for inspiring, motivating, developing your team to continually surpass our guest expectations while identifying and delivering new revenue streams and opportunities.
- Be the face of Hand Picked Hotels in your area and foster a positive, healthy work environment; leading by example you will promote Hand Picked Hotels vision, purpose and values and drive the overall philosophy of service, excellence and consistency.
- Be responsible for driving implementation of divisional and central initiatives and representing the needs of the hotel.
About you
- To be considered for this role of General Manager you must have current experience as a General Manager within a Luxury Hotel including multi‑outlet food with experience of delivering and exceeding LQA level service standards.
- This is not a first‑appointment role and requires an experienced General Manager with rounded hotel operations, commerciality and a proven track record of delivering a consistent and exceptional guest journey and experience.
- You must be able to demonstrate a solid commercial acumen, with the ability to drive sales, seek new revenue streams and partnerships that will increase profitability.
- Have experience of business planning, developing and implementing new initiatives to drive sales, whilst delivering a bespoke high‑end guest experience.
- A proven track record in people management, coaching and development and be an experienced innovator who will inspire others with your passion and flair, creating a winning team mentality.
- Previous experience of project and capex management would be advantageous.
- You will have up‑to‑date knowledge of statutory obligations, including health and safety, and compliance.
- Proficient in hotel software, Opera, Excel and Office 365.
- Our Benefits
- A competitive salary package, plus bonus discussed at interview stage.
- Company pension scheme with a generous employer contribution.
- Life assurance and family private medical insurance.
- Employee Assistance Program to support you with whatever life throws at you.
- Company Sickness Scheme Benefit.
- 33 days holidays including
General Manager in Maidstone employer: Hand Picked Hotels Ltd
Hand Picked Hotels is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead spa operations across stunning luxury hotels in the UK. With a strong commitment to employee growth through extensive training programmes and a supportive work culture that values individuality and community, you will thrive in an environment that encourages creativity and excellence. Enjoy competitive benefits, including a generous holiday allowance and a focus on well-being, all while being part of a family-owned group dedicated to delivering magical experiences for guests.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager in Maidstone
✨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 Hand Picked Hotels Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hand Picked Hotels Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hand Picked Hotels Ltd 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 in Maidstone
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 Hand Picked Hotels Ltd 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 Hand Picked Hotels Ltd
✨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!
