General Manager

COREcruitment; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the sports and leisure sector is looking for a General Manager to oversee a large sports arena in Kent. The successful candidate will manage daily operations, ensure excellent customer service, and drive business growth through strong leadership and sales initiatives. Ideal for those passionate about hospitality and sports.

Qualifications

• Experience managing a large team in fast-paced environments.
• Proven track record in managing P&L budgets.
• Strong passion for hospitality and people.

Responsibilities

• Manage P&L budgets and drive sales growth.
• Facilitate daily operations and ensure smooth running.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Skills

Customer service

Business acumen

Leadership

Sales growth

Operational excellence

Job description

General Manager – Sports and Leisure Venue

Location: Kent

Are you ready to take your leisure experience to the next level? Do you enjoy working in a sports and leisure environment? We are seeking a General Manager to oversee the successful day-to-day operations of a large, purpose-built sports arena. If you are an experienced GM looking for a new challenge, with the ability to operate the business and team to high standards of operational excellence, ambience, and customer service—while maximizing sales and profitability—you might be the perfect fit. The GM should be front-facing, able to lead by example, and proactively drive sales through innovative initiatives and personal impact.

Experience/Knowledge:

• Genuine passion for hospitality and ensuring that the teams they lead share this enthusiasm.
• A love for food, drink, customer service, and people.
• An entrepreneurial spirit with strong business acumen and self-drive, capable of handling ongoing innovation and the challenges of a start-up environment.
• Experience managing a large team, preferably in a fast-paced, branded operation.
• Proven track record of managing P&L budgets and driving sales.
• Ability to manage a multi-faceted venue with multiple revenue streams.

Responsibilities:

• Manage P&L budgets and drive sales growth.
• Handle HR matters following company procedures.
• Facilitate the daily operations and smooth running of the venue.
• Maintain high standards of organisation in front and back of house areas.
• Provide weekly reports to the accounts and Operations Director.
• Be customer-focused, maintaining a management presence and anticipating guest needs to exceed expectations.
• Monitor and ensure consistent quality of products and services through observation and interaction with staff and customers.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to grow the business.
• Coordinate daily operations with kitchen, bar, and reception teams, including customer events.
• Ensure all staff undergo comprehensive induction, including brand standards, health and safety, and product training.
• Organize and support staff training and development.
• Conduct regular performance reviews with staff.
• Ensure compliance with legal and company requirements related to Fire, Health and Safety, Food Hygiene, Licensing Law, and Environmental Health.
• Participate in training sessions and reinforce learning through coaching and communication.

Personal Attributes:

• Confident, engaging, and charismatic personality.
• Positive, proactive, kind, and team-oriented with a passion for sports and hospitality, especially football.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and numerical skills.