The Merchant | Old Spitalfields Market
Following a full refurbishment and the arrival of an exciting new Head Chef, we're creating a modern British restaurant and cocktail bar that champions incredible food, thoughtful wines and genuine hospitality in the heart of East London.
We're looking for a General Manager who wants ownership, not just responsibility. Someone who gets excited about building teams, creating culture and turning a great venue into one of the neighbourhood's favourite places to eat and drink. As an independent business, we move quickly, back ideas and give our leaders the freedom to make an impact. We believe hospitality should have personality, warmth and attention to detail, and we're looking for someone who shares that vision.
Who You Are
You're an experienced operator who leads from the floor and sets the standard every day. You understand restaurants as much as bars. You know what great service feels like, appreciate exceptional food and wine, and recognise that the small details are what bring guests back.
You've probably been involved in an opening, relaunch or major repositioning before and know the energy, resilience and leadership it takes to build something special.
Most importantly, you want to be part of a growing business.
The Opportunity
You'll work closely with our senior leadership team and Head Chef to define the next chapter of The Merchant. From recruiting and training your team and shaping the guest experience to driving commercial performance and building a loyal local following, you'll have genuine influence over the direction of the business.
We're not looking for someone to simply manage shifts. We're looking for someone to build with.
What You'll Be Responsible For
- Leading an exciting independent restaurant relaunch.
- Building, coaching and inspiring a high-performing team.
- Delivering exceptional service and unforgettable guest experiences.
- Working alongside our Head Chef to create a seamless food and beverage offering.
- Driving revenue, profitability and operational excellence.
- Creating a culture of pride, accountability and genuine hospitality.
- Developing local partnerships and establishing The Merchant as a destination within Spitalfields.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to join at the beginning of a new chapter.
We're building an independent collection of restaurant, cocktail and wine-led venues with personality, quality and hospitality at their heart. The Merchant is the next step in that journey, and we're looking for a General Manager who wants to grow with us, challenge the status quo and help create something genuinely special.
If you're entrepreneurial, commercially driven and passionate about hospitality, we'd love to hear from you.
Job Types: Permanent, Full-time
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Sick pay
Application question(s):
- What do you think separates a good neighbourhood restaurant from one that becomes a destination.
Work Location: In person
