Job Description

In July we opened our new bar, small shop, beer garden and eatery in Ullapool, a beautiful village on the West Coast of Scotland. We have events planned throughout winter and things for locals, as well as a fantastic team. We are looking for someone to get stuck in and lead our team by example. We are able to offer accommodation if required.

Currently our distillery is in Ullapools local glen, Rhidorroch and we have a Pop-Up cocktail bar in Ullapool too. We have expanded our business into this new building, called Rhidorroch Distillery and next year will be building a new distillery out the back of it and moving our current distillery from the glen to Ullapool.

Our new building sits on the shore front of this town with fantastic views out to sea and is on the NC500 route. We are about to go into our slightly quieter time so it is a great opportunity for a General Manager to join us and get their teeth stuck in before the 2026 season hits!

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

Lead by example on the floor during busy shifts, setting the tone for service, cleanliness, and professionalism. Recruit front-of-house and bar staff, conducting interviews, reference checks, and onboarding new hires. Provide ongoing training and coaching on service standards, product knowledge (e.g. cocktails, wines, beers), and upselling techniques. Hold regular team meetings and briefings to communicate goals, upcoming events, and changes in operations. Monitor staff performance through regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and formal reviews. Manage conflict resolution within the team professionally and in line with HR procedures. Schedule rotas using workforce management tools, balancing peak trading hours with cost efficiency.

Customer Experience

Greet guests to ensure satisfaction and address any concerns in real time. Personally handle complaints or negative feedback to ensure fast and fair resolution, aiming to retain customer loyalty. Implement service standards (greeting, table service timing, farewell) and train staff to meet or exceed them. Adapt service style and atmosphere to suit different customer bases (e.g. daytime locals vs evening events).

Operations & Service

Oversee daily opening and closing procedures, ensuring checklists are followed and the venue is secure. Supervise setup for shifts, ensuring bars are fully stocked, equipment is working, and staffing levels are adequate. Ensure bartenders follow recipes for consistency and portion control (especially for cocktails or high-cost items). Using mixology skills to train staff in cocktails. Monitor music, lighting, and temperature to maintain a comfortable and inviting environment throughout the day.

Stock & Supplier Management

Conduct weekly stock takes of all wet products (spirits, wine, beer, softs), glassware, and consumables. Use stock control software to track usage, monitor margins, and reduce wastage or shrinkage. Place orders with approved suppliers, maintaining stock levels based on sales trends and forecasted events. Negotiate prices or discounts with reps, including exploring exclusive product deals or seasonal specials. Manage deliveries and check for order accuracy, quality, and damaged goods upon arrival. Rotate stock effectively (FIFO) and manage storage to ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards.

Financial & Business Performance

Monitor daily and weekly sales reports to identify trends, top-selling products, and underperformers. Set and track revenue targets, cost of goods sold (COGS), and gross profit margins. Manage cash handling procedures, including safe counts, tills, and cash-up reconciliation. Minimise labour costs by adjusting staffing in real-time during quiet periods or no-show bookings. Prepare for and participate in monthly P&L meetings with the two owners Suggest pricing strategies or new product offerings to boost revenue and customer spend per head

Safety & Compliance

Ensure all team members are trained in and comply with licensing laws (e.g. Challenge 25, refusal of service). Conduct monthly fire safety checks, ensuring alarms, extinguishers, emergency exits, and signage are in working order. Oversee first aid provision, ensuring kits are stocked and at least one staff member per shift is first aid trained. Perform regular health & safety risk assessments (e.g. wet floors, trip hazards, bar equipment) and address findings immediately. Ensure food hygiene practices are followed, including proper allergen communication and kitchen cleanliness (if food is served). Log all incidents in an incident book (e.g. customer injury, fights, ejections) with follow-up action as needed. Maintain clear records for EHO (Environmental Health Officer), fire safety, and local licensing authority inspections. Train the team on emergency procedures, including fire evacuation, power outage, or violent incidents.

Events & Promotions

Coordinate and execute in-house events such as live music nights, themed parties, or private hires. Work with the owners to promote events via social media, newsletters, and local listings. As well as providing images from the cafe/bar to owners for social media. Liaise with DJs, performers, or event hosts to ensure a smooth experience from setup to breakdown. Monitor event performance and gather customer feedback to refine future offerings. Manage bookings for private functions, including pre-orders, deposits, space allocation, and staffing.

We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, has a strong work ethic, wants to be part of a team, honest and personable. If you are interested in joining a new, fun cafe/bar in Ullapool please contact us.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 16.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 40 per week

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Employee discount Health & wellbeing programme Sick pay Store discount
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: General Manager Rhidorroch Distillery
Expected start date: 20/10/2025