Hands-On Floor Leader — Restaurant Manager

Borde Hill; Haywards Heath; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

Restaurant Manager – Restaurant Isca (Permanent, Full Time)

We are looking for an experienced, hands-on Restaurant Manager to lead the already critically-acclaimed Restaurant Isca. Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will recruit, inspire and lead the team to create the best restaurant in Sussex. This is a floor-based leadership role: you’ll run service day to day, lead by example and take full ownership of the restaurant floor and every part of the guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Run and own the restaurant floor, leading key services in person and setting the standard for smooth, well-paced service, strong systems and attention to detail.
• Prioritise building a team to consistently deliver thoughtful, exceptional and memorable guest experiences.
• In partnership with the Operations Manager, manage staff recruitment, training and development to inspire and build a culture of pride, care and professionalism across the FOH team.
• Work in partnership with the Exec Chef and Head Chef to create and install a culture of excellence and ensure alignment and collaboration across departments.
• Ensure guest satisfaction and handle escalated feedback professionally.
• Deliver and maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and compliance.
• Feed in to budget management and work actively with the Operations Manager to ensure sustainable profitability of the operation, managing labour and resources effectively whilst never sacrificing standards.
• Plan and deliver events with senior management and kitchen teams.
• Ensure compliance on health & safety, licensing, and food hygiene compliance.
• Champion responsible and sustainable practices across FOH operations.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed

(Please provide evidence in your Covering Letter and CV)

• A genuinely hands-on, lead-from-the-front manager who is happiest on the floor running service, with flexibility to work weekends, holidays and evenings.
• Proven experience;
• Restaurant Manager (or senior leadership role) in a highly regarded hospitality business, minimum 5 years.
• Managing private dining and premium events
• Understanding of restaurant finances and P&L management
• Confidence in using digital platforms for stock management, HR, compliance etc
• Passion for connecting with guests and creating memorable experiences.
• A confident, calm and proactive problem solver, with an excellent eye for the detail.
• A can-do, hands-on approach, happy to lead by example and build a vibrant team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, organisation and attention to detail.
• A passion for hospitality, creativity, sustainability and community.

Salary

£50,000-£55,000 per annum (basic + tronc) (option for discounted accommodation on-site within package)

Hours

Full time – 48 hours per week over 5 days including evenings and weekends

Start Date

November 2026

Holiday entitlement

28 days pro rata (including Bank Holidays)