At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to deliver exceptional guest experiences in a vibrant new pub.
- Company: Join The Meadow Lark, an exciting new hospitality destination in Cambridgeshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and generous discounts on food.
- Other info: Exciting career progression opportunities within a rapidly growing hospitality group.
- Why this job: Be part of a brand-new venue and shape its success from day one.
- Qualifications: Previous supervisory experience and a passion for outstanding customer service.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
Assistant Manager - Up to £42,000 OTE (including Tronc)
Join the opening team at one of Cambridgeshire's most exciting new hospitality destinations.
The Meadow Lark, Trumpington – Opening Late 2026
Following a multi-million-pound refurbishment, The Meadow Lark is set to become one of Cambridgeshire's most exciting premium pubs with rooms, and we're looking for an exceptional Assistant Manager to join our opening leadership team.
This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of something special from day one.
Working alongside an experienced General Manager and Deputy General Manager, you'll help recruit, develop and inspire the team while delivering outstanding hospitality and creating memorable experiences for every guest.
If you're passionate about people, thrive in a fast-paced environment and are ready to take the next step in your hospitality career, we'd love to hear from you.
About The Meadow Lark
Previously independently owned for over 20 years, The Meadow Lark has been thoughtfully transformed as part of the award-winning Heartwood Collection.
Located in the affluent village of Trumpington, just south of Cambridge, this beautiful thatched pub with rooms will offer:
- A welcoming 84-cover bar
- A stunning 84-cover restaurant
- An 80-cover terrace and landscaped garden
- 19 beautifully designed boutique bedrooms
- Stylish interiors inspired by Heartwood's signature design
- This will become a destination venue for the local community and visitors alike.
Why Join Heartwood Collection?
At Heartwood Collection, we're passionate about creating welcoming pubs and atmospheric brasseries at the heart of their local communities.
Whether it's our Heartwood Inns or Brasserie Blanc restaurants inspired by Raymond Blanc, we're united by exceptional hospitality, fresh seasonal food and genuine service.
With more than 50 locations and ambitious plans to grow to over 60 sites by 2027, there's never been a better time to join us.
Every new opening creates exciting opportunities for career progression, and we're proud to develop our managers from within.
Assistant Manager - What You'll Be Doing
As Assistant Manager, you'll play a key role in the day-to-day success of the business, supporting the management team to deliver exceptional guest experiences every day.
You'll
- Lead confident, well-organised shifts that deliver outstanding service
- Inspire, coach and support the front of house team to be at their very best
- Lead from the front, setting the standard through your own example
- Ensure every guest receives warm, genuine hospitality from arrival to departure
- Support the General Manager and Deputy General Manager in achieving business targets and maintaining excellent operational standards
- Assist with recruiting, training and developing new team members
- Conduct engaging pre-shift briefings and motivate the team throughout service
- Build positive relationships with both front and back of house teams to deliver seamless service
- Handle guest feedback confidently, resolving issues with professionalism and care
- Ensure the business operates safely and in line with company procedures and legal requirements
- Assistant Manager - What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who genuinely loves hospitality and enjoys developing people just as much as delivering exceptional guest experiences.
You'll have
- Previous supervisory or management experience within a busy hospitality environment
- A passion for delivering outstanding customer service
- Excellent leadership and communication skills
- The confidence to lead busy shifts and motivate a team
- Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail
- A positive, hands‑on approach and willingness to lead by example
- The ability to remain calm under pressure while maintaining high standards
- Commercial awareness and a desire to continue developing your management skills
- Assistant Manager - What We Offer
- Excellent Reward Package
- Up to £36,000 OTE (including Tronc*)
- Competitive salary
- Instant access to earned pay through Early Pay
- Refer a Friend bonus of up to £1,500
- Career Development
- Industry‑leading
- Stepping Stones training and development programme
- Clear progression opportunities throughout Heartwood Collection
- Structured leadership development and ongoing coaching
- Wellbeing & Lifestyle
- Employee Assistance Programme with Hospitality Action
- Enhanced maternity and paternity package
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Long Service Recognition Awards
- A thoughtful birthday gift
- 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 Grow Your Career
This isn't just another Assistant Manager role.
Whether your ambition is to become a Deputy General Manager, General Manager or continue developing within one of the UK's fastest‑growing hospitality groups, we'll support your career every step of the way through our award-winning
Stepping Stones development programme.
Many of our General Managers have progressed through the business, and with exciting new openings planned across the country, there has never been a better time to join us.
- Award-Winning Employer
- We're proud to be recognised as one of the UK's leading hospitality businesses, including:
- 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 new 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 during the first six months following opening.
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Assistant Manager in Cambourne employer: Heartwood PropCo
At Heartwood Collection, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the hospitality sector, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters personal and professional growth. As part of our opening team at The Meadow Lark in Trumpington, you'll enjoy competitive pay, extensive training opportunities through our award-winning Stepping Stones programme, and a supportive environment where your passion for exceptional service can flourish. Join us to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating memorable experiences in one of Cambridgeshire's most exciting new venues.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Manager in Cambourne
✨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 PropCo. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Heartwood PropCo
Don't be shy about reaching out to Heartwood PropCo 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 Assistant Manager in Cambourne
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 PropCo 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 PropCo
✨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!
