General Manager

We’re seeking a guest obsessed General Manager to lead our hotel, someone who shares our vision and wants to grow with us for the long term. As General Manager, you’ll have a purpose-led approach that defines our unique culture in hospitality. You’ll play a pivotal role in our journey towards B Corp certification, contributing to a distinctive employer brand and supporting our reputation in the industry.

At Watergate Bay Hotel, we know purpose matters, especially to senior professionals eager to contribute meaningfully through their work. Our purpose shapes everything we do—from our culture and principles to the direction of our business. We believe happiness is crafted from the little things, that they collectively add up to create an environment where people can flourish.

With a strong foundation in hospitality and a deep connection to our coastal setting, you’ll take responsibility for ensuring we meet our brand, people, and operational objectives. As a natural, empathetic leader, you’ll bring authority, inspiration, and motivation to help us achieve our ambitious goals.

If you have a love for true hospitality, great commercial flair, keen instincts, a desire to grow within a supportive environment, and a commitment to impactful work, then we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Shape and execute the operational strategy for the hotel, aligning it with our core objectives and goals.
• Drive efficiencies and performance to optimize operations.
• Collaborate with the Group Executive team to develop and implement long-term strategies that support our brand, guest experience, and commercial goals.
• Monitor management reports to track performance metrics, including costs, revenue, guest satisfaction, and health and safety standards.
• Work with the Group HR and executive teams to support a people strategy that reflects our broader organisational goals.
• Build and lead the senior operations team, providing guidance, motivation, and inspiration to all team members.
• Use feedback and insights to drive innovation and continual improvements.
• Offer mentorship and performance management for direct reports, ensuring best practices are applied across all operational areas.
• Partner with the Group Executive team to deliver on our growth initiatives, enhancing guest experience and operational success.
• Work alongside project management to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

Job skills and requirements:

• Extensive hospitality experience in a leadership role with a proven record of achievement.
• Deep, up-to-date knowledge of the hospitality industry and relevant expertise.
• Exceptional front-of-house and F&B experience with a genuine passion for guest services.
• Empathetic leadership with the ability to inspire change and drive team alignment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• A creative yet process-oriented mindset with a commitment to excellence.
• Understanding of brand impact and how it can drive success.
• Strong team player, skilled in relationship-building with teams, partners, and guests.
• A love for the hospitality industry and an enthusiasm that inspires those around you.
• Ambition with a long-term vision for growth and success.
• Someone who is guest obsessed.

What we can offer in return:

• Working in a beautiful location – at one of the UK’s most striking beaches
• A welcoming team of like minds, eager to support and encourage each other
• Excellent career prospects in an ever-expanding organisation
• Special rates for you and your friends and family to stay at the hotel
• Free surf lessons, surfboards and wetsuits hire from Wavehunters
• Team social events throughout the year
• Team assistance scheme – a dedicated helpline for support & advice on topics from mental health through to managing your finances
• Life cover
• Medical cash plan
• Cycle to work

From discounted stays to training and development opportunities, we're all about helping our team achieve their personal and professional goals. Located on the sunny, sandy, Cornish coast, you'll never be short on inspiration. Working at Watergate Bay Hotel isn't just a job - it's a transformative career opportunity. Apply now and join us in creating memorable experiences that our guests and team remember for a lifetime.