At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant pub, delivering exceptional guest experiences and managing a passionate team.
- Company: Independent pub in Archway, known for quality British food and a lively atmosphere.
- Benefits: Up to £55k salary, bonus schemes, on-site flat, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture with career progression and fun team events.
- Why this job: Be the heart of a buzzing venue and make impactful decisions every day.
- Qualifications: 2+ years as a General Manager with a passion for food and drink.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 55000 £ per year.
A Thrilling Opportunity for a food-and-wine centric General Manager to spearhead this fabulous pub in the heart of Archway: The St Johns Tavern. We are an independent local pub, restaurant and private dining destination, nestled in Archway with excellent access to London’s top schools and a splash of celebrity buzz. Our focus is seasonal, high-quality British food with a refined bistro influence, fuelled by top producers and suppliers. Expect an impressive line-up behind the bar: local and continental craft beer, cask ale, an extensive global wine list, and classic cocktails.
The Role
- As General Manager, you will own every facet of the venue’s performance.
- You’ll be empowered to run the site as if it were your own business, with commercial acumen and fearless leadership.
- Lead, train, and inspire a team to consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences.
- Create a buzz of vibrant energy, warmth, and fun for guests and staff alike.
- You’ll also have the chance to train, develop, and progress your career as the company grows.
What we’re Looking For
- Put your heart on your sleeve: take ownership, be bold, and run the business as if it’s your own.
- Stay cool under pressure—calm, composed, and unflappable.
- Drop the ego at the door and get things done.
- Minimum 2 years’ experience as a General Manager.
- Deep knowledge of premium gastropub food & drink businesses.
- Strong communication and organisational skills; approachable leadership.
- Superb customer and floor service skills.
- Solid financials, operations, and customer-satisfaction know-how.
- Entrepreneurial flair and a genuine passion for people development.
- Love to train, mentor, and grow a high-performing team.
- Personal License holder is a plus.
What’s In It For You
- Competitive salary up to £55,000 (plus generous bonus schemes you can influence).
- New On-site flat.
- Comprehensive training and ongoing development to accelerate your career.
- Clear path for progression with regular openings and opportunities to step up.
- Employee discounts across all our pubs, bars and restaurants.
- Strategic autonomy: make meaningful decisions, own your results, be fearless.
- Continuous team trips, management incentives, and socials in a warm, family-like culture.
- 28 days’ holiday.
- Free meals during shifts.
- Employee Assistance Programme via Licence Trade Charity.
- Lucrative referral scheme: earn up to £1,000 per successful referral.
- Access to Stream to draw wages as needed.
- Birthday day off on us.
- Cycle-to-work scheme.
- Enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption pay.
- Workplace nursery benefit.
- Length-of-service recognition rewards.
- A fantastic Archway location with strong catchment and a celeb “hot spot” vibe.
Ready to lead a standout, quality-focused venue in a buzzing London enclave? If you’re bold, people-centric, and commercial with a passion for exceptional food and drink, we’d love to meet you.
General Manager employer: ST JOHNS TAVERN
Join our vibrant team as a Front of House Team Member, where your passion for hospitality and guest-first service will shine. We offer a fun, supportive work culture with ample opportunities for career progression in a rapidly expanding company, alongside competitive pay, team incentives, and a fantastic employee assistance programme. With regular socials and a strong community spirit, you'll thrive in an environment that celebrates individuality and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager
✨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 ST JOHNS TAVERN. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to ST JOHNS TAVERN
Don't be shy about reaching out to ST JOHNS TAVERN 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
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 ST JOHNS TAVERN 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 ST JOHNS TAVERN
✨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!