At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead hospitality operations and create unforgettable experiences at RSA House.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK & Ireland, a leader in hospitality with a focus on inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, personal development, health support, and a vibrant work culture.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and recognition.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a historic venue while driving innovation and excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in premium hospitality management and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 78000 - 78000 £ per year.
Company of Cooks is a leading provider of hospitality and events to some of the UK’s most loved cultural destinations. With over 25 years of experience, we operate cafés, restaurants, bars and events in historic palaces, botanical gardens, galleries and performance spaces – currently at RSA House in London.
About RSA House
RSA House is the historic home of The RSA, a global charity dedicated to creativity for the good of all. The venue blends world‑famous historic rooms with modern event spaces, housing 13 distinct spaces, public hospitality venues such as The Coffee House, Muse cocktail bar, and the RSA Library. RSA House hosts a wide range of events – from corporate conferences and brand launches to awards dinners, weddings and private celebrations – all of which directly support The RSA’s social mission.
Compensation & Working Pattern
- Rate of pay: Up to £78,000 per annum + bonus (OTE £91,500)
- Working pattern: 40 hours per week (5 out of 7 days)
- Location: London, WC2N 6EZ
About the Role
This is a highly strategic, client‑facing position with full responsibility for hospitality and commercial operations under a prestigious cost‑plus contract. The General Manager will turn a client’s vision into operational reality, driving commercial performance, operational excellence and exceptional service standards across a diverse portfolio – a premium café, bar, and extensive events programme.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all operational aspects of the account, ensuring exceptional service standards across café, bar, hospitality and events.
- Act as the primary point of contact for the client, building and maintaining a strong and trusted relationship.
- Translate the client’s vision into innovative and effective operational delivery.
- Manage multiple hospitality offers, including a premium café, bar and a varied programme of corporate and private events.
- Develop and oversee the sales and marketing strategy to drive revenue growth and maximise commercial opportunities.
- Take ownership of all menu offers, structure and pricing to ensure strong customer appeal and profitability.
- Drive commercial performance, profitability and achievement of financial targets.
- Lead, inspire and develop a diverse team of approximately 30 employees.
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety and food safety standards.
- Maintain a strong focus on customer experience, innovation and continuous improvement.
Ideal Candidate
- Proven experience as a General Manager within premium hospitality.
- Strong commercial and financial management skills, with experience managing budgets and delivering financial targets.
- Exceptional client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience managing multiple hospitality streams – café, bar and events.
- Strong understanding of sales, marketing and business development.
- Experience in menu planning, offer development and pricing strategy.
- Ability to lead, inspire and develop a multi‑disciplinary team.
- Strategic mindset with excellent attention to detail.
- Experience within bespoke, corporate or other high‑profile hospitality environments is highly desirable.
- Strong leadership presence and ability to build a positive team culture.
Benefits
- Personal development and training opportunities.
- Life assurance scheme.
- Pension scheme.
- Holiday allowance.
- Access to a healthcare support app with annual health checks, digital GP, mental health consultations, nutritional consultations, second medical opinion.
- Eye care.
- Wellbeing strategy – including Employee Assistance Programme and salary finance.
- Family‑friendly support.
- Regular social events and communication with leaders.
- Holiday purchase scheme.
- Volunteering days.
- Professional subscriptions.
- Recognition schemes and people awards.
- Long service awards.
- Access to discount vouchers.
General Manager - The Royal Society of Arts employer: myGwork - LGBTQ+ Business Community
As a General Manager at RSA House, you will be part of a dynamic team within Company of Cooks, a leader in hospitality and events at one of London's most iconic venues. The company fosters an inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth through personal development opportunities, while also offering competitive benefits such as a life assurance scheme, pension plan, and a comprehensive wellbeing strategy. With a focus on innovation and exceptional service, this role provides a unique chance to lead a diverse team and make a meaningful impact in a historic setting.
Contact Details:
myGwork - LGBTQ+ Business Community Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager - The Royal Society of Arts
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the hospitality industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your personality! When you get that interview, let your passion for hospitality shine through. Share your experiences and how you’ve turned client visions into reality. Remember, they want to see the real you, so be authentic and engaging.
✨Tip Number 3
Research, research, research! Before any interview, dive deep into the RSA House and Compass Group. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only impress them but also help you tailor your answers to align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to find and apply for roles that suit your skills. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of something special!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager - The Royal Society of Arts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Hospitality:When you're writing your application, let your love for the hospitality industry shine through! We want to see how your experience aligns with our mission at RSA House and how you can bring that passion to life in your role.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific role. Highlight your relevant experience in managing premium hospitality venues and your success in driving commercial performance. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills to what we do!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that showcases your key achievements without unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at RSA House!
How to prepare for a job interview at myGwork - LGBTQ+ Business Community
✨Know Your Venue Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you research RSA House thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with its history, the types of events it hosts, and its unique offerings. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how you can enhance their operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a General Manager, your leadership skills are crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in high-pressure environments. Be ready to discuss your approach to team development and how you inspire others to achieve excellence.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role involves managing budgets and driving profitability, brush up on your financial management skills. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in previous roles that resulted in revenue growth or cost savings.
✨Engage with Client Relationship Strategies
Client relationships are key in this role. Think of examples where you've built strong client partnerships and how you’ve translated their visions into successful operational outcomes. Highlight your communication skills and ability to manage stakeholder expectations effectively.
