At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to deliver an exceptional pub experience and manage operations.
- Company: Join the Guild of Students, a Times 100 Best Companies to Work For employer.
- Benefits: Generous leave, full sick pay, training, and personal development allowances.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a brand-new JD Wetherspoons venue and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in a fast-paced pub environment and leadership qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This is an exciting time to join our team, as we begin our new partnership with JD Wetherspoons in May 2026. With a fully refurbished, brand‑new JD Wetherspoons venue, you’ll have the opportunity to help shape its future and play a key role from day one.
This role is part of the Venues department which works collectively with colleagues to deliver the Guild’s Food & Beverage operations including Joe’s Bar (J D Wetherspoon pub), nightclub operations and event security within the Venues Department, within the Engagement Directorate. Reporting to the Business Development Manager and Director of Engagement, this will be a key role in leading, developing and supporting staff to deliver the Guild strategic plan for students.
As Pub Manager, you’ll lead and support the team to deliver an exceptional JD Wetherspoons (JDW) pub experience, alongside our nightclub and licensed events. You’ll drive sales, manage costs, uphold outstanding customer service and ensure full compliance with JDW and Guild standards. We’re looking for candidates with proven experience within a fast-paced pub environment such as JD Wetherspoon’s, alongside Food Safety qualifications and leadership qualifications such as the JDW advanced management academy. You’ll play a key role in ensuring the JD Wetherspoons operation @ Joes bar is profitable and consistently meets franchise standards and compliance requirements.
Why Join Us? Join us and be part of an organisation where every day is different and your contribution makes a real difference to the student experience! We offer a great range of benefits including:
- Generous Leave: 21 days annual leave, rising to 26 days after 5 years’ service, plus a Christmas close down period
- Full Sick Pay: From the moment you start working with us.
- Training: A comprehensive suite of training for which you receive full pay
- Pension: Opportunity to join the NEST pension scheme with matched contributions of 4-6% of your salary.
- Benefits: A gift on your birthday, additional days leave for a life milestone event, £100 annual allowance for your personal development, discounts available with UniDays, and membership of University of Birmingham Sport & Fitness, and car breakdown cover.
- Wellbeing: A range of wellbeing benefits including an annual £50 personal Wellbeing Allowance.
We are a Times 100 Best Companies to Work For employer (2021 & 2022) and in our most recent staff survey (April 2025) 81% of our staff said they would recommend this organisation as a good place to work. The Guild of Students is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all members of the community.
Closing date for applications: Monday 23rd March 2026 at 9.00am. Please note interviews are provisionally expected to take place on Monday 30th March 2026.
To apply and view more information about this role, please visit: https://www.guildofstudents.com/about/your-union/workwithus/currentvacancies/
Should you need to complete your application in an alternative format, please email staffing@guild.bham.ac.uk
Pub Manager in Birmingham employer: University of Birmingham Guild of Students
The Guild of Students is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With generous leave policies, comprehensive training programmes, and a commitment to equality and inclusion, staff members are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Located at the University of Birmingham, employees benefit from discounted access to sports facilities and a vibrant campus culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about student engagement and community building.
Contact Details:
University of Birmingham Guild of Students Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pub Manager in Birmingham
✨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 University of Birmingham Guild of Students. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to University of Birmingham Guild of Students
Don't be shy about reaching out to University of Birmingham Guild of Students 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 Pub Manager in Birmingham
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 University of Birmingham Guild of Students 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 University of Birmingham Guild of Students
✨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!
