Assistant Manager – The Hoddington Arms
The Hoddington Arms is a family-run, award-winning village pub in Upton Grey, Hampshire, known for exceptional food, warm hospitality and a strong focus on quality.
We are proud to be recommended in The Michelin Guide and The Good Food Guide, and we have recently been awarded 2 AA Rosettes in recognition of our food standards.
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Assistant Manager to join our Front of House team and play a key role in maintaining and developing the high standards that our guests expect.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a quality-driven hospitality environment and enjoys taking ownership. You will work closely with our management team to support the smooth running of daily service, lead and develop the FOH team, and ensure every guest receives the warm, professional welcome that The Hoddington Arms is known for.
A strong focus of this role will be stock control, systems, standards and team leadership, making it ideal for an experienced FOH professional looking to take the next step in their career.
The Role
As Assistant Manager, you will be a key member of our Front of House leadership team, supporting the day-to-day operation of the pub and helping to deliver exceptional service across every area of the business.
You will take responsibility for ensuring our service standards remain consistently high, our team is supported and motivated, and our stock and operational systems are managed effectively.
Responsibilities
- Support the management team in the daily running of the pub
- Lead and motivate the Front of House team, creating a positive and professional working environment
- Maintain exceptional service standards and ensure every guest receives a warm and memorable experience
- Take ownership of stock control, including ordering, deliveries, rotation, wastage and stock management systems
- Work closely with suppliers and ensure quality and consistency across all products
- Support beverage management, including cellar standards, wine service and bar organisation
- Monitor GP, wastage and stock performance, identifying opportunities for improvement
- Ensure all FOH areas are presented to the highest standard at all times
- Support staff training, development and onboarding of new team members
- Lead services confidently, remaining calm and organised during busy periods
- Ensure compliance with licensing, health and safety and food hygiene requirements
- Work closely with the kitchen team to ensure smooth communication between FOH and BOH
Requirements
- Proven experience in an Assistant Manager, Supervisor or senior Front of House role within a quality restaurant, gastropub or similar hospitality environment
- Strong understanding of stock control, ordering and cost management
- Experience leading and developing a team with confidence and professionalism
- Excellent knowledge of food and beverage service
- A keen eye for detail and pride in maintaining high standards
- Ability to lead service from the front and support the team during busy periods
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Excellent communication skills and a positive, hands-on approach
- Passion for hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences
What We Offer
- The opportunity to join an award-winning, independent pub with a strong reputation for food and service
- A key leadership role within a supportive and ambitious team
- The chance to make a real impact on standards, systems and the future growth of the business
- Opportunities for personal development and career progression
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Staff benefits and discounts
- A friendly, professional working environment where your contribution is valued
If you are an experienced hospitality professional who enjoys leading teams, improving standards and being part of a successful independent business, we would love to hear from you.
Pay: £27,000.00-£30,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
