General Manager in Milborne Port

The Clockspire is an award-winning restaurant and architectural gem located in Sherborne, Dorset. Housed within a beautifully restored 19th-century schoolhouse, the venue is defined by its striking Victorian Gothic features, most notably the majestic clock tower that gives the establishment its name.

Architecture & Atmosphere

The restoration is a masterclass in blending heritage with modern luxury. Inside, the original high-timbered ceilings and exposed stone walls create a sense of scale, while a sleek, open-plan kitchen and polished marble finishes add contemporary elegance. The atmosphere strikes a delicate balance between being grandly historic and warmly intimate.

The Culinary Experience

Led by a commitment to seasonality, the kitchen focuses on elevated British cuisine. The menus are a celebration of the West Country’s larder, featuring:

• Local Provenance: Ingredients sourced from nearby farms and coastal day-boats.
• Refined Technique: Classic flavours reimagined with modern flair and precision.
• Cocktail Lounge: A sophisticated mezzanine level perfect for pre-dinner drinks.

Whether you're visiting for a Sunday roast or a multi-course tasting menu, The Clockspire is widely regarded as a destination landmark that honours its past while pushing the boundaries of local gastronomy.

Overview of the Role

The General Manager is responsible for the overall success and smooth day-to-day operation of The Clockspire. This includes strategic leadership, understanding financial performance, operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and team development. The GM will ensure the business runs efficiently while consistently delivering an outstanding guest experience befitting the brand.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Management

• Inspire, mentor, and develop the management team, including Restaurant Managers and junior team.
• Build a high-performing team culture focused on collaboration, efficiency, and exceptional warm hospitality.
• Lead recruitment, onboarding, and continuous performance development.
• Foster open communication and empower the team to resolve challenges proactively.

Operations Management

• Oversee and support daily operations across restaurant service, kitchen coordination, and events.
• Optimise labour levels to meet business needs without compromising service standards.
• Ensure full compliance with operational standards, health & safety regulations, and food hygiene requirements.
• Regularly inspect the restaurant to ensure facilities, equipment, and furnishings are maintained to the highest level.

Guest Experience

• Champion a guest-centred culture and ensure every guest receives a memorable experience.
• Monitor and respond to guest feedback, using insights to drive continuous improvement.
• Set and uphold service and hospitality standards with the management team.
• Address and resolve guest concerns professionally and promptly by being empathic.

Financial and Strategic Planning

• Drive profitability by effectively managing food, beverage, consumables, utilities, and labour costs.
• Monitor financial performance and implement action plans to meet or exceed targets.
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to maximise revenue opportunities, including events and promotional activity.

Events and Marketing Support

• Support the planning and smooth execution of events, private dining, and seasonal promotions.
• Provide input for marketing campaigns aligned with The Clockspire’s identity and brand positioning.
• Act as an ambassador for the site, building strong local relationships.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure full compliance with company policies, licensing laws, and industry regulations.
• Understand and fill accurate records including financial reports, payroll, and personnel documentation.
• Review security procedures to protect team members, guests, and company assets.
• Lead or support investigations into incidents or accidents.

Additional Information – Benefits

• WSH Restaurants offers a family-feel culture with exceptional opportunities for development and progression.
• Benefits include complimentary meals during shifts, life assurance, clear progression pathways within a growing company, 28 days holiday, increasing with length of service, recommend-a-friend bonus scheme, access to our PERKBOX platform with discounts on gym memberships, travel, shopping, gadgets and more, recognition programmes, long service awards, and performance incentives, enrolment into workplace pension scheme, employee assistance programme & wellbeing hub, cycle to work scheme.