General Manager

£36,000 – £40,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Full-time | Based in Exeter | Cover Letter Required

About Oriels

Launching soon in the heart of Exeter, Oriels Cocktail Bar & Eatery is an exciting new premium venue that blends sophisticated cocktails, vibrant entertainment, and a stylish dining experience. Designed to be Exeter's go-to destination for elevated nights out, Oriels will combine exceptional drinks, great music, and warm hospitality — all within a beautifully designed setting.

We're now looking for an experienced and passionate General Manager to lead our team and bring the Oriels vision to life.

The Opportunity

This is a rare chance to join a team of experienced industry operators at the launch stage of a major new hospitality venue. As General Manager, you'll have the freedom to put your stamp on the business, shape the guest experience, and lead a talented team through an exciting new opening and beyond.

The Role

As General Manager, you'll oversee all aspects of venue operations — from service and standards to staffing, compliance, and profitability. You'll create an environment where guests receive incredible service, cocktails are world-class, and the team works together to deliver unforgettable experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations

• Oversee all daily operations across bar, floor, and kitchen teams.
• Lead, motivate, and inspire your management team and staff to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Maintain operational excellence, service standards, and venue presentation at all times.
• Work closely with ownership and senior operators to implement brand vision and business objectives.

People & HR

• Recruit, train, and develop a motivated, high-performing team.
• Manage rotas, labour costs, and staff performance reviews.
• Foster a positive, supportive, and professional workplace culture.

Cocktails, Entertainment & Guest Experience

• Curate an exciting and balanced programme of entertainment and live music.
• Work with the bar team to innovate and refresh Oriels' cocktail menu and drinks offering.
• Ensure the atmosphere, lighting, music, and service style align with Oriels' premium brand identity.

Financial Management & Compliance

• Take responsibility for P&L performance, budgeting, and cost control.
• Manage supplier relationships, purchasing, and stock management.
• Ensure full compliance with licensing, health & safety, and food hygiene regulations.

About You

• Proven management experience within hospitality — ideally from a cocktail bar, late-night venue, or premium food & beverage background.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage diverse teams.
• A genuine passion for cocktails, entertainment, and delivering incredible guest experiences.
• Commercially astute with solid knowledge of budgets, margins, and business KPIs.
• Highly organised, proactive, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
• Based locally to Exeter or within a commutable distance.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £36,000 – £40,000 per annum, depending on experience.
• The chance to lead one of Exeter's most exciting new venue launches.
• Support from an experienced and passionate ownership team.
• Genuine autonomy to shape the venue's direction and guest experience.
• Staff perks, team socials, and clear opportunities for progression as the business grows.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, your passion for hospitality, and why you'd be the perfect fit to lead Oriels.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £36,000.00-£40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Flexitime
• Transport links

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 31/10/2025

Reference ID: ORIELS GM

Expected start date: 20/11/2025