At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to create unforgettable guest experiences in a premium pub setting.
- Company: Join the award-winning Heartwood Collection, known for its vibrant community pubs.
- Benefits: Earn up to £44,000 OTE, enjoy discounts, and access career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a growing company with clear progression paths and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting new chapter at The Meadow Lark, opening in late 2026.
- Qualifications: Previous management experience in hospitality and a passion for team development.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 40000 £ per year.
Deputy General Manager
Up to £44,000 OTE (including Tronc). Be part of something special from day one.
After a multi‑million‑pound refurbishment, The Meadow Lark will become one of Cambridgeshire's most exciting premium pub‑with‑rooms destinations.
We are looking for an exceptional Deputy General Manager to help bring it to life.
Working alongside an experienced General Manager, you'll play a key role in building the team, shaping the culture and delivering an outstanding guest experience from the very first day.
From recruiting and developing your team to establishing exceptional operational standards, you'll help create a pub that quickly becomes the heart of its local community.
About The Meadow Lark
Previously independently owned for over 20 years, The Meadow Lark has been thoughtfully re‑imagined as part of the award‑winning Heartwood Collection.
Located in the affluent village of Trumpington, just south of Cambridge, this thatched pub with rooms will feature a welcoming bar with 84 covers, an elegant 84‑cover dining room, an 80‑cover terrace, landscaped garden, 19 boutique bedrooms, and stylish interiors showcasing Heartwood's signature design.
This is a rare opportunity to join the opening leadership team of a landmark hospitality destination.
Why Join Heartwood Collection
Heartwood Collection is passionate about creating welcoming pubs and atmospheric brasseries at the heart of their local communities.
With over 50 locations and ambitious plans to grow to more than 60 sites by 2027, there is never a better time to join us.
- Deputy General Manager – What You'll Be Doing
- Support and inspire a large, engaged team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
- Lead by example, creating a positive and motivating working environment.
- Work alongside the General Manager to deliver outstanding commercial performance.
- Help recruit, onboard and develop a high‑performing team.
- Maintain exceptional standards across food, drink, service and accommodation.
- Drive guest satisfaction, team engagement and operational excellence.
- Support the delivery of budgets, KPIs and business growth.
- Take ownership of the business in the General Manager's absence.
- Deputy General Manager – What We're Looking For
We're looking for an experienced hospitality manager who thrives in premium, high‑volume environments.
- You'll Have
- Previous management experience within a premium hospitality business.
- Outstanding leadership skills with a passion for coaching and developing people.
- Experience managing busy operations and large teams.
- Strong commercial awareness and confidence in managing budgets and KPIs.
- A genuine passion for delivering memorable guest experiences.
- A hands‑on approach with the confidence to lead from the front.
- Energy, warmth and the ability to build strong relationships with both guests and colleagues.
What We Offer – Excellent Reward Package
- Up to £44,000 OTE (including Tronc)
- Competitive basic salary
- Earned wage access through Early Pay
- Refer a Friend bonus of up to £15000
- Career Development
- Industry‑leading Stepping Stones development programme.
- Clear progression opportunities across our growing collection.
- Ongoing leadership development and career coaching.
- Wellbeing & Lifestyle
- Employee Assistance Programme in partnership with Hospitality Action.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity package.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- A thoughtful birthday gift.
- Long Service Recognition Awards.
- Food & Discounts
- 50% discount on food across Heartwood Inns and Brasserie Blanc.
- 20% friends and family food discount.
- Hundreds of retail and lifestyle discounts through Reward Gateway.
- A Place to Build Your Career
If you're looking for more than just your next job, this could be the perfect opportunity.
Whether your ambition is to become a General Manager or continue progressing within one of the UK's fastest‑growing hospitality groups, we'll support your development every step of the way through our award‑winning Stepping Stones programme.
- Award‑Winning Employer
- Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.
- Double winner at the Publican Awards 2024.
- Three‑Star Sustainable Restaurant Association accreditation.
- R200 recognition.
- Plus many more industry awards.
Join us at the beginning of an exciting new chapter and help create one of Cambridgeshire's most exciting hospitality destinations.
Apply today and become part of The Meadow Lark's opening story.
OTE is based on a 48‑hour working week. Tronc earnings are estimated using projected site performance and average distributions durin
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy General Manager in Cambridge
✨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 Heartwood Inns. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Heartwood Inns
Don't be shy about reaching out to Heartwood Inns 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 Deputy General Manager in Cambridge
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 Heartwood Inns 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 Heartwood Inns
✨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!
