At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to deliver exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences.
- Company: Upham Inns, a family of premium pubs across Southern England.
- Benefits: Up to £40,000 salary, flexible work, discounts, and development pathways.
- Other info: Dynamic role with the chance to shape your own pub and community connections.
- Why this job: Join a growing brand that values people and offers real opportunities for growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality with strong leadership and a hands-on approach.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 € per year.
Ready for a New Challenge? Love Variety? Let’s Hit the Road Together!
At Upham Inns, we believe great pubs are built on great people. Our collection of beautiful country inns and pubs across the South of England are all about warm welcomes, outstanding food, and genuine hospitality — and that starts with our leaders.
We’re looking for an inspirational General Manager Designate to join our growing team — someone who lives and breathes hospitality, leads from the front, and creates memorable experiences for both guests and team members.
As a General Manager Designate, you’ll spend time learning what makes Upham Inns special. You’ll work closely with our leadership team across several of our stunning pubs, developing your skills, deepening your understanding of our brand, and preparing to take on your own site as a full General Manager.
About You
- You’re a natural leader who inspires confidence and pride in your team.
- You believe hospitality is about people — guests and team alike.
- You’ve got experience in premium pubs or restaurants with a strong food focus.
- You’re hands-on, energetic, and love being at the heart of service.
- You take pride in exceptional standards, from a perfectly poured pint to a beautifully presented dish.
What You’ll Do
- Lead and motivate your team to deliver outstanding food, drink, and service.
- Create a welcoming, inclusive environment for guests and staff.
- Support and develop team members to reach their full potential.
- Work closely with our Operations team to understand every aspect of running a successful pub.
- Uphold the Upham Inns ethos — genuine hospitality, great food, and community at its heart.
What We Offer
- Full pathway to running your own pub within Upham Inns.
- Full support, training, and development from a passionate leadership team.
- Competitive salary and bonus structure.
- The chance to be part of a values-driven company where people come first.
- Work with a group that celebrates individuality, creativity, and a love of great hospitality.
At Upham Inns, we don’t just serve food and drink — we create places people love to visit, and teams love to work in.
What’s In It For You?
- Up to £40,000 per year + Tronc + Travel Expenses
- Flexibility – Work across different pubs and enjoy variety in your weeks
- 50% off meals for you and up to 6 friends, plus discounts on hotel stays
- 33% off for friends & family at all Upham Inns
- Lifestyle Card – Over 5,000 exclusive discounts from high street to local gems
- Service awards, birthday gifts & referral bonuses (up to £1,000 for chefs!)
- Development pathways – From apprenticeships to senior leadership
- Be part of something growing – We’re expanding and want you to grow with us
What You’ll Need to Shine:
- A passionate hospitality pro - whether you're already a General Manager or a seasoned Deputy ready to step up
- Strong leadership with a hands-on, can-do spirit
- Proven ability to drive sales, manage P&Ls, and balance labour vs performance
- An individual with people — your team trusts you, your guests love you
- Flexibility to travel across our sites and adapt quickly to new environments
- A clean driving license and the right to work in the UK
Your Day-to-Day Will Include:
- Taking the reins at different pubs – Spending extended times in different pubs to shape your knowledge around how we operate, whilst bringing your skill and experience to help shape the future.
- Leading and motivating teams to deliver unforgettable guest experiences
- Building community connections and making every pub feel like home
- Owning everything from guest journey to safety checks, stock control, and team development
- Always leading by example – on the floor, in the kitchen, and behind the scenes
About Upham Inns
We’re a proudly independent family of premium pubs with rooms, dotted across beautiful locations in Southern England. From cosy countryside inns to exciting new brands like Harper’s Steakhouse, we bring warm hospitality, fresh seasonal food, and a welcoming smile to everything we do.
Come for the Challenge. Stay for the People. Grow with the Brand.
We’re small enough to know your name, big enough to offer real opportunities. So if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, make a difference, and join a business that cares, we’d love to hear from you.
General Manager Designate in London employer: The Thomas Lord
At Upham Inns, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values its people above all else. With a strong focus on personal development and a supportive leadership team, we offer a clear pathway to running your own pub while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of our beautiful country inns across Southern England. Join us for a rewarding career where you can inspire others, create memorable experiences, and be part of a growing family that celebrates individuality and genuine hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager Designate in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the hospitality industry. Attend events, join local groups, or even pop into pubs and chat with managers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your passion for hospitality shine through. Share stories about your experiences and how you’ve made a difference in previous roles. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to Upham Inns and express your interest in becoming a General Manager Designate. A friendly email or call can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching Upham Inns thoroughly. Understand their ethos and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re all about!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager Designate in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Hospitality:When writing your application, let your love for hospitality shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your dedication to creating memorable guest experiences and leading a team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and ethos of Upham Inns. Mention how your leadership style aligns with their focus on genuine hospitality and community spirit.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to showcase your experience in premium pubs or restaurants. Talk about your hands-on approach and any achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive sales and manage teams effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to see your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Thomas Lord
✨Know the Brand Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to really understand Upham Inns and what makes it special. Familiarise yourself with their ethos of genuine hospitality and community focus. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you align your answers with their values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a General Manager Designate, your leadership skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences in leading teams, motivating staff, and creating a positive work environment. Use specific examples that highlight your hands-on approach and ability to inspire confidence in others.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Hospitality
Upham Inns is all about people and exceptional service. Share your passion for hospitality during the interview. Talk about memorable guest experiences you've created or how you've gone above and beyond for both guests and team members. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions. Ask about the company culture, opportunities for development, or how they measure success in their pubs. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.