Job Description

About the Role:

We are looking for an experienced, motivated

Venue Manager

to take full operational ownership of the Coach & Horses -- a well-established community pub with a strong drinks offer, including quality cask ales, and a growing events and entertainment calendar.

This is a key leadership role for someone who thrives on running a venue as if it were their own. You will be responsible for standards, people, performance and the overall guest experience, with the autonomy to shape the venue's direction while being supported by a wider group structure.

Key Responsibilities

Act as

Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)

, ensuring full compliance with licensing laws and conditions.

Ensure full compliance with

HACCP food safety

, Health & Safety, fire safety and first aid requirements in line with group policies. Lead day-to-day front- and back-of-house operations to deliver consistent, high-quality service. Take ownership of guest experience, responding professionally to feedback, complaints and online reviews. Maintain a clean, safe and welcoming venue through strong due diligence and operational controls. Recruit, train, schedule and lead the front-of-house team, carrying out regular performance and development reviews. Set the standard for hospitality, service and professionalism across the venue. Take full responsibility for

commercial performance

, driving revenue while controlling costs, staffing levels and waste. Oversee product quality across all drinks, with particular focus on

cellar management and cask ale standards

. Work with suppliers, contribute to pricing strategies and identify opportunities to improve margin and quality. Own and manage the venue's

local marketing and social media presence

, promoting events, offers and new revenue streams. Occasionally support sister venues where required. Carry out other reasonable duties in line with business needs.

Skills & Experience Required

Proven experience as a

Venue Manager

or in a similar senior hospitality leadership role.

Eligible and willing to be named

Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)

. Strong knowledge of food & beverage operations, with confidence in HACCP principles. Demonstrable experience leading teams in a busy, customer-focused environment. Strong commercial awareness with excellent cash handling and financial control skills. Ability to motivate, develop and manage teams while maintaining high standards. Confident decision-maker with strong communication and interpersonal skills. Competent and willing to manage social media platforms in line with company branding. Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

Qualifications & Requirements

Food Hygiene Certificate Level 2 (or willingness to obtain). Proven experience running a similar venue, ideally with a strong cask ale offer. Strong cellar knowledge and pride in product quality. Ability to provide at least

two references

from previous employers.

What We Offer

Competitive salary, dependent on experience.

Real autonomy to run and develop the venue. Support from a wider group and senior management team. Opportunity to make a genuine impact and grow with the business.
If you are a hands-on leader who takes pride in running great pubs, building strong teams and delivering outstanding guest experiences, we would love to hear from you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: Up to 29,800.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Employee discount Free parking On-site parking
Application question(s):

Cellar management and conditioning of cask ale
Experience:

Hospitality management: 2 years (required) Social media marketing: 1 year (required)
Licence/Certification:

Personal Licence (required) Food Hygiene Certificate (required)
Work Location: In person