Wine Bar General Manager

Job Overview

We're looking for an experienced, passionate and knowledgeable General Manager to lead the opening and day-to-day running of The Winery – Stony Stratford, our brand-new wine, cheese and coffee bar.

As we open our second location following the success of our flagship bar in Leighton Buzzard, this is a key leadership role in establishing the venue's reputation and maintaining the exceptional standards we're known for. You'll oversee operational aspects of the bar, guide and inspire the team, and ensure every guest has an exceptional experience that reflects The Winery's identity.

A strong foundation of wine knowledge is essential, confident service, ability to talk openly about wine styles, and training the team on core product knowledge. You will be heavily supported by the Managing Director.

What you'll be doing:

· Overseeing all daily operations – ensuring the bar runs smoothly, professionally and efficiently at all times.

· Managing Staff Rotas -to balance service standards, efficiency and cost.

· Recruiting, training and developing the team – leading by example and fostering a professional and welcoming culture.

· Acting as venue lead — delivering confident table service, guiding wine recommendations, and maintaining an elevated guest experience.

• Managing stock and orders — ensuring availability, organisation and accurate inventory control.
• Maintaining service standards — ensuring every guest interaction reflects the atmosphere and professionalism The Winery is known for.
• Capturing light marketing content (photos, stories, moments) to support our social media presence.
• Compliance - Ensuring compliance with food hygiene, health and safety, and licensing requirements.
• Collaborating with Managing Director — feeding back ideas, challenges, and opportunities.

What we're looking for:

• A minimum of 2 years' experience in a management role in hospitality (ideally bar or restaurant)
• Strong and confident wine knowledge — comfortable recommending wines, explaining key varietals and serving professionally.
• A professional, hands-on, team-first approach — someone who leads by example
• Organised, calm under pressure, and confident in managing staff and service
• A real love for wine, food, and guest experience — not just operations
• Comfortable working evenings and weekends as standard
• Strong understanding of bar operations, rota planning, stock control and basic financials
• Someone excited by the opportunity to grow with us, and maintain the professional standards we have set.

Salary: £33,500 per year (all inclusive based on 37 operational shift hours + 3 hours for stocking & operations hours per week) + tips + growing annual bonus.

This is a salaried role with an all-inclusive wage. You will work 37 shifted hours (excluding opening/closing) out of the 56 hours the bar is open to the public. There may be times where you finish early on quieter days, and others where you're needed outside your usual hours — for example to:

• Hold an interview or training
• Support an urgent issue (e.g. maintenance or staffing)
• Cover an unexpected shortfall
• Respond to an emergency

We're looking for someone who takes responsibility and leadership of the bar's day-to-day running, but we'll always aim to balance your time incredibly fairly and support you as best we can. You will be heavily supported by the Managing Director.

What we offer:

• £33,500 all inclusive salary + tips (based on 40 hours/week)
• Annual bonus of 2% of net profit – payable after one year of service, subject to maintaining high operational and customer service standards.
• 28 days paid holiday
• Flexible time off in your working week
• Staff Discount
• A supportive and friendly ownership team who want you to succeed
• Room to bring your own personality and ideas to the table

About The Winery

The Winery is a premier destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Born out of a passion for exceptional flavours and unforgettable experiences, The Winery is more than just a bar, it's a place where memories are made.​

Our concept is simple yet refined: we bring together the best quality of wine and cheese under one roof, offering our guests a unique opportunity to indulge in the perfect pairing of these timeless pleasures. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a cheese connoisseur, or a coffee lover, you'll find something to delight your senses.​

At The Winery, we believe that every visit should be a moment to savour, an experience. ​​Whether you're there for a casual catch up with friends, a special celebration or simply just to enjoy a quiet moment of indulgence, our dedicated team is there to ensure the time with us is nothing short of extraordinary.

Ready to join us?

Send your CV and a short note telling us why you'd be a great fit to

We can't wait to hear from you.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £33,500.00-£36,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Flexitime
• Free parking

Work Location: In person