Assistant Manager: The Lion Hotel & Pub, Buckden
We are seeking a dynamic, hands-on, and community-focused Assistant Manager to join our team at The Lion Hotel in Buckden.
As we continue to evolve our offering—ranging from our popular Global Curry Buffet series to hosting local events like the Buckden Summer Beats—we need a leader who truly understands the heartbeat of our village. We are looking for someone who can maintain the high standards of service our guests expect while supporting the daily operations of a busy, historic hospitality venue.
Role Overview
The Assistant Manager will work closely with the owner to ensure the seamless running of both the pub and hotel operations. This role is ideal for an individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes genuine pride in delivering exceptional experiences to both our visitors and our local regulars.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership: Manage daily floor operations, ensuring the pub and hotel areas are welcoming, clean, and fully staffed.
Community Engagement: Act as a key ambassador for The Lion. Deep local knowledge of Buckden and the surrounding area is essential, as you will be responsible for building relationships with our regulars and engaging with the community during our events.
Team Development: Assist in managing the staff rota, providing coaching to team members, and ensuring all staff uphold our high standards of service.
Event Coordination: Take an active role in the planning and execution of our events, including our monthly Global Curry Buffet and live music nights like Buckden Summer Beats.
Financial & Administrative Support: Assist with routine bookkeeping, payroll processing, and inventory management.
Requirements
Hospitality Experience: Proven experience in a pub, hotel, or similar customer-facing role.
Local Knowledge: A strong connection to or deep understanding of the Buckden area is highly valued. We are looking for someone who understands our local clientele and values our place in the community.
Operational Skills: Strong understanding of shift management, rotas, and staff supervision.
Numerical Competence: Experience with bookkeeping and payroll management is highly preferred.
Flexibility: Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings.
Compensation & Benefits
We offer a competitive package of £26,000 – £30,000 per year (dependent on experience). In addition to your salary, we provide:
Performance-Based Incentives: Opportunities for bonuses tied to business success and event performance.
Work-Life Balance: We are committed to a fair and sustainable rota.
Staff Perks: Discounts on food, drinks, and stays for you and your family.
Professional Growth: Support and development in your management career within a growing, independent business.
Why Join The Lion?
You will be joining a team that values community, quality, and continuous improvement. We are currently undergoing exciting renovations across our terrace and guest rooms, providing a fresh and modern environment to work in. This is a hands-on role where your contributions will have a direct and visible impact on the success of a historic local institution.
To apply, please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and your connection to the local area to [email protected]].
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £24,420.00-£32,169.28 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- Pay rise
Work Location: In person
