F&B Manager

Job Title: F&B Manager

Salary: £34,162 – £36,634 per annum

Hours: 40 hours per week

Type: Permanent

Location: Reading

Start Date: ASAP

Work Pattern: Includes evenings and weekends; full-time, 5 days per week

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced F&B Manager to join a brand-new, entertainment-led venue opening in the heart of Reading. This dynamic role offers the chance to take the reins in a fun and fast-paced family entertainment centre, packed with features like VR, AR darts, karaoke, arcade games, and more. We are looking for a hands-on leader ready to shape the experience of this exciting concept from the ground up.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Lead, supervise and support front-of-house and kitchen teams, driving high standards in daily service.
2. Recruit, onboard and train staff to deliver an excellent customer experience.
3. Maintain schedules to ensure peak-time coverage and optimal team performance.
4. Deliver excellent customer service, addressing complaints and maintaining a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
5. Manage stock control, supplier relationships, and waste reduction.
6. Take full ownership of P&L management, budgets, pricing, and cost control to maximise profit.
7. Ensure full compliance with licensing laws, health & safety regulations, and internal policies.
8. Organise and promote events, offers, and community initiatives to drive footfall.
9. Oversee opening/closing procedures, equipment maintenance, and supplier coordination.
10. Act as first responder in emergencies or staff/customer conflict situations.
11. Monitor performance metrics and generate regular reports for senior leadership.
12. Continuously evaluate and develop menus, promotions, and service standards to stay ahead of trends.
13. Lead from the front — this is a hands-on position, not suited to back-office-only management styles.

Qualifications and Experience:

1. Must hold a Personal Licence.
2. Minimum 4 years' experience in a management role within F&B or a similar leisure environment.
3. Strong conflict resolution and customer service capabilities.
4. Demonstrated experience in recruitment, training, and team leadership.
5. Sound knowledge of stock control, waste management, and supplier relations.
6. Proficient in Excel and reporting systems.
7. Proven experience managing P&L and budgets.

Additional Information:

1. Performance-based bonus + phone allowance.
2. 28 days holiday (including Bank Holidays).
3. Company pension.
4. Weekend and evening availability is essential.