Overview
We are looking for an experienced and highly organised Restaurant Operations Manager to take ownership of the day-to-day operation of our independent restaurant. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on maintaining exceptional standards, building efficient systems and ensuring every aspect of the restaurant operates seamlessly. Working closely with the owner, you will be responsible for leading the team, delivering an outstanding guest experience and creating a culture of accountability, consistency and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities
Operational Excellence
- Take full ownership of the daily operation of the restaurant.
- Ensure opening, closing and service procedures are completed to the highest standard.
- Maintain exceptional cleanliness, organisation and presentation throughout the restaurant.
- Ensure all equipment is maintained, serviced and repaired promptly.
- Oversee stock ordering and inventory management, including food, beverages, wine, cleaning chemicals and restaurant supplies.
- Maintain organised storage areas and stock rotation procedures.
- Identify operational improvements and implement efficient systems and processes.
Compliance & Health & Safety
- Ensure full compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety and licensing regulations.
- Complete and monitor all required compliance records, checklists and audits.
- Maintain allergen procedures and ensure legal compliance.
- Ensure the restaurant is inspection-ready at all times.
Guest Experience
- Lead service to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
- Resolve guest feedback and complaints professionally and proactively.
- Monitor service standards and continuously coach the team to exceed guest expectations.
Team Leadership
- Lead, motivate and develop the front-of-house team.
- Prepare rotas in line with labour budgets and business needs.
- Conduct team briefings, training and performance reviews.
- Maintain high levels of accountability and performance across the team.
- Support recruitment, onboarding and ongoing development of team members.
Business Performance
- Monitor labour costs and productivity.
- Minimise waste through effective stock control.
- Work closely with the owner to improve operational performance.
- Take ownership of problems and ensure they are resolved without supervision.
Skills
Essential
- Previous experience managing a busy premium restaurant.
- Strong operational management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
- Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- Experience managing rotas, labour costs and stock control.
- Strong understanding of Food Safety, Health & Safety and allergen regulations.
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
- Calm under pressure with a proactive, solutions-focused mindset.
We are looking for someone who:
- Naturally notices the details others miss.
- Takes ownership rather than waiting to be asked.
- Leads by example and holds themselves and others accountable.
- Enjoys building systems, improving processes and maintaining consistently high standards.
- Wants to build a long-term career within an ambitious independent restaurant.
What Success Looks Like
- The restaurant consistently operates to exceptional standards.
- Guests receive an outstanding experience every day.
- The team is well-trained, motivated and accountable.
- Compliance, cleanliness and organisation are never compromised.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys creating order, maintaining exceptional standards and taking genuine ownership of an operation—not simply managing shifts.
Pay: £43,000.00-£46,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Referral programme
- Sick pay
Experience:
- Restaurant management: 2 years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
