General Manager

Following a multi-million-pound transformation in 2024, The Boathouse has re-emerged as one of the South Coast's most stunning waterfront venues. Overlooking Swanwick Marina with panoramic harbour views, it's a place where relaxed coastal dining meets elevated service, fresh local food, and a warm community spirit.

We are now looking for an exceptional General Manager to lead this flagship venue into its next chapter.

What success looks like in this role

• A motivated, empowered, and happy team who deliver consistently brilliant hospitality across every shift.
• Outstanding guest feedback across all channels, with clear action taken to maintain and elevate standards.
• Strong commercial awareness, with confident decision making that protects margins and responds to business trends.
• A visible presence in the venue and the community-our regulars know you by name, and you know what matters to them.
• A collaborative approach across the Ideal Collection group, sharing ideas and championing innovation.

What you'll bring

• A proven track record running high-volume, guest-focused venues.
• A leadership style that inspires trust, accountability, and pride.
• A passion for hospitality that shows in every interaction.
• The confidence to run The Boathouse as if it were your own business-because we'll trust you to do exactly that.

What we offer

• Genuine autonomy with the support of an engaged Managing Director.
• Performance-related bonus.
• Excellent tips shared equally across the team.
• Supplier trips (our wine trips are legendary).
• 28 days holiday, rising with service.
• No Christmas Day or Boxing Day working.
• Reduced evening work through winter.
• Free staff parking.
• Fresh, chef-prepared meals on shift.
• Friends & family discounts across all five venues.
• Early pay options when needed.
• Brilliant staff parties and a genuinely people-first culture-no corporate nonsense, just good people doing good work.

If you're ready to lead a beautifully refurbished, community-loved venue and shape its future, we'd love to hear from you.