At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and oversee operations at two vibrant pubs in the Scottish Highlands.
- Company: Family-owned hospitality business with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, company vehicle, and pension.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and help shape the future of our pubs.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on role with significant autonomy.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
- Group General Manager The Kimberley Inn, Findhorn & The Lock Inn, Fort Augustus
- £45,000–£55,000 DOE + Performance Bonus + Company Vehicle
We are looking for an experienced and ambitious Group General Manager to oversee two established, independently owned pubs in the Scottish Highlands.
Our family business operates The Kimberley Inn in Findhorn and The Lock Inn in Fort Augustus – two busy, food-led pubs in fantastic locations, each with its own strong identity, loyal customer base and experienced team.
As our family begins to step back from the day-to-day running of the businesses, we are looking for someone exceptional to take greater ownership of operations across both sites.
This is a senior, hands-on role with significant autonomy and the opportunity to make a genuine impact on how the businesses are run and developed.
The Role Working closely with the owners, you will have overall responsibility for the operational performance of both pubs.
You will support and lead the management teams at each site, ensuring consistently high standards while driving commercial performance and creating a positive working environment.
Your responsibilities will include
- Providing leadership and operational oversight across both venues
- Supporting, developing and holding site management teams accountable
- Maintaining consistently high standards of food, drink, service and customer experience
- Recruiting, training and developing managers and team members
- Overseeing staffing levels and labour costs
- Monitoring sales, GP, labour percentages, costs and overall financial performance
- Working with the owners and management teams to identify opportunities to increase revenue and profitability
- Implementing and improving operational systems and processes
- Ensuring full compliance with licensing, food safety, employment and health & safety requirements
- Managing suppliers and supporting purchasing and cost control
- Handling operational issues confidently and effectively
- Helping to build a positive, professional and accountable culture across both businesses
- Supporting future projects and the continued development of the group
Although this is a senior management position, we are an independent hospitality business and are looking for someone who is comfortable being hands-on when required.
You'll be visible in the businesses, know the teams and understand what's happening on the floor – not manage solely from behind a desk.
About You We are looking for an experienced hospitality operator who combines strong people leadership with commercial awareness.
Attitude and drive is more important to us than years of experience although can be advantageous
Ideally, you will have
- Significant experience as a General Manager, Operations Manager, Area Manager or similar senior hospitality role
- A proven track record of successfully leading hospitality teams
- Strong understanding of P&L, GP, labour management and cost control
- Experience recruiting, developing and retaining great people
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities
- Confidence making decisions and taking ownership
- High standards and genuine attention to detail
- A passion for great pubs, food and hospitality
- A practical, hands-on management style
- A full UK driving licence
Previous multi-site experience would be advantageous, although we would also welcome applications from single-site Managers ready and hungry to take the next step in their career.
- The Package
- £45,000–£55,000 salary depending on experience
- Performance-related bonus
- Company vehicle
- Pension
- Significant autonomy and responsibility
- Direct involvement in future business decisions and development
- Opportunity to play a key role in the next chapter of an established independent hospitality business
About Us We are a long-established, family-owned hospitality business with pubs in two of Scotland's most distinctive locations.
We're proud of what we've built, but we're also ambitious about what comes next.
We're investing in our businesses, modernising our systems and looking at how we can operate more efficiently while retaining the personality, independence and warm hospitality that make our pubs special.
We're looking for someone who wants to become an important part of that journey.
This role would suit an experienced operator looking for greater autonomy, variety and the opportunity to have a real influence on a business rather than simply implementing decisions made by a head office.
If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.
- Please apply with your CV and a short covering letter outlining your experience and why you think you'd be a great fit for the role.
Group Operations Manager in Forres employer: Highland Inns Ltd
As a family-owned hospitality business operating in the stunning Scottish Highlands, we offer an exceptional work environment where your leadership can truly shine. With significant autonomy, a performance-related bonus, and a company vehicle, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our two beloved pubs while enjoying a supportive culture that values personal growth and development. Join us in shaping the future of our establishments, where your passion for great food and hospitality will be celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Operations Manager in Forres
✨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 Highland Inns Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Highland Inns Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Highland Inns 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 Group Operations Manager in Forres
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 Highland Inns 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 Highland Inns 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!
