Operations Manager

Andalucia Tapas Restaurant and Bar; Ferring; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A bustling tapas restaurant in Ferring is seeking an Operations & Events Manager to lead its vibrant hospitality operation. You will be responsible for ensuring high standards in service and leading the team during day-to-day and special events. The ideal candidate must have a minimum of two years in a management role, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record in event planning, while possessing a passion for food and wine. Competitive salary and growth opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on KPIs

Discounts across food & drink

Training and career development opportunities

Fun, inclusive and supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a management role within a fast-paced bar or restaurant.
• Proven track record in planning and executing successful events.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge of licensing laws and health & safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead service on the floor and ensure smooth daily operations.
• Train and mentor FOH staff to deliver excellent service.
• Plan and execute private events and functions.
• Collaborate with marketing to drive footfall and promote events.

Skills

Team leadership

Event planning

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Commercial awareness

Education

WSET Level 1–3 or equivalent wine knowledge

Job description

Overview

Restaurant and events manager

Andalucia Tapas & Wine Bar is a vibrant, thriving tapas restaurant located in the heart of Ferring, West Sussex, known for delivering outstanding food, drink, and memorable guest experiences. We are seeking a driven and service-led Operations & Events Manager to join our leadership team.

Role type: full-time, permanent. Location and salary details to be confirmed.

Role Overview

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Operations & Events Manager to lead our dynamic hospitality operation. This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives on delivering high standards, motivating teams and creating memorable guest experiences both day-to-day and during private events. You’ll be the face of the restaurant – a confident leader, an excellent communicator and a hospitality professional with a deep understanding of food, wine, cocktails and team training.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Service Delivery

• Actively lead service on the floor (bar and restaurant), setting the standard for pace, precision, and hospitality.
• Ensure smooth daily operations, from opening procedures to closing down.
• Uphold and enforce all food safety, health & safety, and licensing regulations.
• Maintain stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships in collaboration with the owners/head chef.
• Support systems and processes that ensure operational efficiency and consistency.

Team Training & Development

• Train, coach, and mentor FOH staff to deliver excellent service and product knowledge.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, probation check-ins and team meetings.
• Implement and oversee onboarding for new team members, ensuring culture fit and skill development.
• Foster a strong team culture focused on growth, accountability and guest satisfaction.

Events Management

• Work closely with marketing to promote upcoming events and offers.
• Plan and execute private events and functions, working closely with guests and the kitchen/bar team.
• Ensure all events run smoothly on brand and meet guests' expectations.
• Generate and manage new event revenue streams throughout the year.

Commercial & Revenue Growth

• Work with the operations director to set and achieve weekly/monthly revenue and upselling targets.
• Identify and implement upselling opportunities during service and events.
• Analyse sales and event performance data to improve profitability and guest satisfaction.
• Collaborate with marketing on events, promotions and partnerships to drive footfall.

Guest Experience & Standards

• Be a visible, engaging presence during service – resolving issues, welcoming guests, and ensuring exceptional experiences.
• Monitor feedback via review platforms, reservations systems and in-person guest interactions.
• Develop and implement service SOPs to ensure consistency.
• Champion a “hospitality-first” ethos across the team.

Key Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a management role within a fast-paced bar or restaurant.
• Proven track record in planning and executing successful events.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Hands-on service experience, with the ability to lead a shift and work across bar, floor, and hosting.
• WSET Level 1–3 or equivalent wine knowledge (preferred) – able to train and inspire others.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commercial awareness and ability to drive sales.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of licensing laws, health & safety, and food hygiene regulations.
• Charismatic and hands-on approach.
• Knowledge or appreciation of Spanish cuisine and culture (preferred but not essential).

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and bonus structure based on KPIs and event performance.
• Opportunity to shape and grow the events and operations side of the business.
• Discounts across food & drink.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• A fun, inclusive and supportive work environment.