General Manager in Sherborne

WSH Restaurants is a unique collection of stunning restaurants, bars, and one hotel across various locations in the UK, each with its own character and identity, offering exceptional hospitality through outstanding food and warm, skilful service. We set incredibly high standards because we care passionately about our food, our people, and our guests. Our vision is to create individual, world‑class dining destinations, united by unwavering quality, refined simplicity, and a relaxed yet polished ambience. Our commitment to being a destination employer is reflected in our investment in career development, training, and mentorship fostering a culture of pride, accountability, and long‑term success.

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. 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 is a balance between grand historic and warmly intimate. Led by a commitment to seasonality, the kitchen focuses on elevated British cuisine, celebrating the West Country’s larder with local provenance, refined technique, and a sophisticated cocktail lounge.

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.

• 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, with empathy.
• 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 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. Maintain 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.

Benefits:

• 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 the 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

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, religion, disability or other status.