Lead a landmark seaside venue. Become part of the community. Shape the future.
We’re looking for a standout General Manager with a genuine presence in Exmouth — someone who knows how to embed themselves locally, build relationships, and help drive Heydays to the full potential we know it can achieve.
We’re looking for a character: a visible leader who can grow both the business and its reputation, engage with the local community, stay ahead of industry trends, and adapt our offer to what Exmouth wants — all while staying true to the Heydays identity.
About Heydays
Heydays sits right on the beachfront in Exmouth, with sweeping coastal views from every seat. Opened in 2024, we’re a relaxed seaside bar and restaurant serving modern British food all day, every day throughout the busy season.
In summer, we’re buzzing — the go‑to destination for food, drinks, and atmosphere. In the quieter months, we remain a local favourite for coffee, pastries, cocktails, wine, and locally sourced beers and ciders.
In our first year, we welcomed record numbers of guests and built strong ties with the local community, supporting many of the great things happening in and around Exmouth. Our ambition now is simple: keep raising the bar and give every customer an amazing time, all year round.
The Role
As General Manager, you’ll take the reins as the driving force behind Heydays.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Creating and leading a strong, motivated team culture that shines through both peak summers and quieter winters
- Running a hands‑on operation with real scope to grow revenue, improve systems, and elevate the guest experience
- Maximising performance during high‑volume periods — your ability to turn tables efficiently in peak season will directly impact the bottom line
- Ensuring customer enjoyment is always front of mind, no matter how busy things get
This is a role with freedom, trust, and room to make your mark. We welcome new ideas, fresh thinking, and proactive leadership — this will genuinely be your ship to run.
What You’ll Bring
Alongside strong leadership and commercial instinct, you’ll need:
- A pragmatic, practical, problem‑solving mindset
- Confidence to make decisions and see them through
- At least 2 years’ experience as a General Manager, ideally in a similarly busy venue
- Experience managing seasonal trade is a strong advantage
You’ll also oversee the full range of GM responsibilities, including:
- Training and development
- Maintenance, cleaning, and H&S
- Customer service and conflict resolution
- Labour planning, recruitment, and appraisals
- Events and community engagement
- Stock control, budgeting, and reporting.
- Excellent food and drink knowledge
Experience with Sevenrooms, Workforce, and Square is a bonus, but not essential.
Why Join Us?
- A flagship venue in one of Devon’s best seaside locations
- A supportive business that won’t micromanage you
- The chance to genuinely influence the direction and success of the venue
- A role that blends leadership, creativity, community, and commercial impact
How to Apply
Get in touch and tell us:
- A bit about you
- Your work history
- Why you’d love this role
- Why you’d excel as General Manager of Heydays
References will be required if you’re successful, so please include details.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £40,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Free parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Exmouth EX8 2AY: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- General Manager: 2 years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
