At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant venue, inspire your team, and ensure top-notch guest experiences.
- Company: The Blues Kitchen, known for its lively atmosphere and heartfelt hospitality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, discounts, training opportunities, and recognition rewards.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for global industry trips and career growth.
- Why this job: Take ownership of a beloved venue and make a real impact in hospitality.
- Qualifications: Experience as a General Manager in high-volume hospitality and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
We’re looking for a General Manager to lead one of our busiest and most loved venues at The Blues Kitchen
The Blues Kitchen brings together proper food, world-class live music and an incredible drinks menu, all under one roof.
But what really sets us apart is how it feels.
The energy in the room.
The standards behind the scenes.
The people who make it happen.
This is a venue built on heartfelt hospitality, strong culture and attention to detail.
Nothing is random.
Everything matters.
From how a shift is run to how a guest feels walking through the door.
As General Manager, you take full ownership of the venue.
You set the tone, build the culture and lead from the front.
You’ll be responsible for every part of the operation, making sure the team is motivated, the standards stay high and the business performs.
This is a role for someone who knows how to lead properly.
Someone commercial, people-focused and switched on.
Someone who wants to build something long term and take real pride in what they run.
- What You’ll Do
- Lead the overall direction and performance of the venue
- Build, develop and inspire a high-performing management team
- Drive standards across service, food, drinks and guest experience
- Take ownership of P&L, budgeting, labour and financial performance
- Oversee recruitment, training and team development across all departments
- Create a strong team culture built on accountability and care
- Work closely with senior leadership to grow the business and deliver long-term success
- Make sure the venue runs smoothly, safely and consistently every day
- What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a General Manager in a high-volume hospitality business
- Strong commercial awareness and confidence managing budgets and performance
- A natural leader who knows how to motivate, coach and get the best out of people
- High standards and a sharp eye for detail
- Calm under pressure and confident making decisions
- Someone who genuinely cares about hospitality and wants to build a brilliant team
- Ambitious, grounded and excited by the chance to lead one of London’s most exciting venues
- What to Expect
- Competitive salary plus tronc with a strong overall package. Paid monthly.
- A high energy working environment with a strong team around you.
- Real autonomy and ownership of your venue.
- Why You’ll Love Working With Us
- 50% off across all Columbo venues, plus free access to our events and festivals.
- Training and development through the Columbo Academy.
- Hero of the Month recognition, including a paid weekend off.
- Generous Referral Scheme.
- Opportunities for global industry trips for top performers.
- Pension scheme via Nest.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
General Manager employer: The Blues Kitchen
The Blues Kitchen in London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and energetic work environment where hospitality thrives. With competitive pay and clear growth opportunities, employees are encouraged to develop their skills while leading a dedicated team to enhance guest experiences. Join us to be part of a dynamic culture that values care, confidence, and attention to detail in every aspect of service.
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 The Blues Kitchen. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Blues Kitchen
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Blues Kitchen 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 The Blues Kitchen 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 The Blues Kitchen
✨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!
