About the role
We’re looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Assistant Manager to join the team at The Stage Door, a lively independent pub in the heart of Waterloo.
The Stage Door is a busy, characterful pub in the heart of Waterloo, known for its genuine hospitality, friendly service and welcoming atmosphere. We serve quality food cooked on site, a carefully selected range of beers, show major live sporting events, host regular live music and make the most of our popular rooftop terrace. We welcome a vibrant mix of locals, commuters, theatre-goers and visitors from around the world, making every shift varied, fast-paced and rewarding.
This is a hands-on management role supporting the General Manager with the day-to-day running of the pub. You’ll help lead the team, deliver excellent customer service, maintain high standards and ensure every shift runs smoothly. We’re looking for someone confident, dependable and experienced in a busy hospitality environment who enjoys being part of a close-knit team.
For the right candidate, this role may also be available as a live-in position. Accommodation details and any associated costs would be discussed during the interview process.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your hospitality career and bring energy, personality and leadership to a great independent London pub, we’d love to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
- Support the General Manager in the overall operation of the business, taking ownership, leading by example, and stepping up whenever needed.
- Lead shifts to ensure the pub runs smoothly, efficiently, and professionally.
- Train, develop, and motivate team members, setting clear expectations and maintaining high standards across every shift.
- Support staff rotas to ensure shifts are properly organised and fully covered.
Customer Experience & Community
- Become a recognisable and trusted face of The Stage Door, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both regulars and new customers.
- Respond confidently to customer feedback, resolving any issues professionally.
- Support live events, including live music, sports screenings, and special functions.
Daily Operations & Standards
- Oversee opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and daily operational checks.
- Manage stock levels, stock rotation, deliveries, and supplier checks.
- Maintain excellent standards of cleanliness, presentation, licensing compliance, and health and safety.
Commercial & Business Growth
- Help control wastage, reduce unnecessary costs, and protect profitability.
- Identify opportunities to improve service, increase sales, and continuously strengthen the overall customer experience.
This role would suit someone energetic, confident and highly motivated who genuinely enjoys engaging with customers and bringing out the best in their team. We’re looking for more than someone who can simply manage a shift—we want someone who will take pride in the pub, become part of its personality and help move The Stage Door forward.
Requirements & Experience
We’re looking for a strong, hands-on Assistant Manager who is ready to take ownership of the pub’s daily operation and become a key part of The Stage Door team.
Essential
Experience & Operations
- Previous supervisory or management experience in a busy pub, bar, or hospitality venue.
- Hands-on experience with stock control, deliveries, cash handling, and opening/closing procedures.
- The legal right to work in the UK.
Leadership & People Skills
- Confidence leading shifts and managing a team during busy service.
- Experience training, motivating, and supporting team members.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage positively with both customers and staff.
Mindset & Work Ethic
- A genuine passion for customer service and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- A practical, hands-on attitude with the confidence to solve problems and make decisions on the fly.
- Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise under pressure.
- High standards of cleanliness, presentation, and attention to detail.
- A reliable, positive, and professional approach to work.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, bank holidays, and major sporting or entertainment events.
Desirable
- Experience: At least two years in a supervisory or management role, ideally within a busy London pub.
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of cellar management, beer quality, and line-cleaning procedures.
- Admin & Tech: Experience using EPOS systems, managing rotas, and monitoring staff costs.
- Compliance: Knowledge of licensing, health and safety, and food-safety requirements (a Personal Licence, or willingness to obtain one, is a big plus).
- Events: Experience supporting live music, sports screenings, or special events.
Pay: £28,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Available to work every second weekend.
Experience:
- Supervising: 2 years (required)
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
