Assistant Manager — The Navigation Inn, Stratford
Goodmerch Pubs Ltd (depending on experience) Full-Time | Permanent
About Us
The Navigation Inn is a well-established, food-led pub in the heart of Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove — open seven days a week, serving everything from classic pub favourites to loaded burgers, curries, and Sunday roasts. We're part of Goodmerch Pubs Ltd, a growing independent pub group, and we're looking for a driven, hands-on Assistant Manager to help lead this venue through its next chapter.
This isn't a clock-in, clock-out role. If you want real ownership, genuine autonomy, and the chance to shape a pub's identity from the ground up — read on.
The Opportunity
We're looking for someone who wants to run a pub — not just work in one. As Assistant Manager, you'll operate as the day-to-day leader of The Navigation Inn, taking full responsibility across both wet and dry sides of the business. You'll report directly to the owner and have the freedom to drive standards, grow revenue, and build a team you're proud of.
This is a turnaround opportunity. We want someone who sees potential, thrives under pressure, and gets excited about building something better.
What You'll Be Responsible For Full P&L Ownership
- Take ownership of the pub's financial performance across food, drink, and ancillary revenue
- Manage weekly and monthly budgets, GP targets, wage percentages, and overheads
- Conduct regular stock takes (bar and kitchen) and minimise wastage
- Analyse sales data and trading patterns to inform commercial decisions
- Prepare and present weekly trading reports to the owner
Operations & Service
- Oversee all front-of-house and back-of-house operations to ensure a smooth, consistent guest experience
- Maintain impeccable standards of cleanliness, presentation, and service across the venue
- Manage all supplier relationships, ordering, deliveries, and invoice reconciliation
- Ensure all opening and closing procedures are followed without exception
- Handle customer complaints professionally, turning problems into loyalty
Kitchen & Food Oversight
- Work closely with the kitchen team to maintain food quality, portion control, and menu consistency
- Monitor food cost percentages weekly and take corrective action where needed
- Support menu development and seasonal specials that drive footfall
- Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, allergen, and health & safety regulations
Team Leadership & HR
- Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing team across FOH and BOH
- Create and manage staff rotas, ensuring adequate cover within wage budgets
- Conduct regular one-to-ones, performance reviews, and team briefings
- Handle disciplinary and grievance matters in line with company policy
- Foster a positive, accountable team culture where standards are non-negotiable
Sales, Marketing & Community
- Drive revenue through local marketing initiatives, events, promotions, and social media activity
- Build relationships within the local community to increase regular trade
- Manage the pub's online presence including Google, social media, and review platforms
- Plan and execute events (quiz nights, live music, themed evenings, seasonal promotions)
- Maximise covers and average spend through upselling and strategic offers
Compliance & Administration
- Ensure full compliance with all licensing laws, health & safety regulations, and fire safety requirements
- Maintain all required documentation, risk assessments, and due diligence records
- Oversee EPOS systems, cash handling procedures, and end-of-day reconciliation
- Liaise with external bodies (local council, environmental health, licensing authorities) as required
What We're Looking For
- Minimum 2 years' experience in a supervisory or management role within hospitality (pubs, bars, or restaurants)
- Strong understanding of P&L management, stock control, and GP analysis
- Proven ability to lead and motivate a team
- Confident handling both the bar and the pass — you lead from the front
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
- Knowledge of licensing law, food safety (Level 2 minimum), and health & safety
- Personal Licence holder (preferred, not essential)
- Resilient, self-motivated, and comfortable with autonomy
- A genuine passion for hospitality and creating great guest experiences
What's In It For You
- Real autonomy — run the pub day-to-day with direct access to the owner
- Growth potential — prove yourself here and there's scope to grow within the group
- Your stamp on it — this is a turnaround project; you'll shape the culture, the standards, and the reputation
- Competitive salary — £26,000–£30,000 DOE
- Tips — staff tips on top of salary
- Development — training and support provided, including pathway to Personal Licence if needed
How to Apply
Send your CV and a brief cover note to or apply directly through Indeed.
No agencies, please.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Goodmerch Pubs Ltd is an equal opportunities employer.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £26,000.00-£30,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Supervising : 2 years (preferred)
- Bar management: 2 years (required)
- Hospitality: 2 years (required)
- Management: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
