Negotiable
EXCEPTIONAL GENERAL MANAGER / GENERAL MANAGER TEAM SOUGHT FOR NEWLY RENOVATED FREEHOUSE IN AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTYCOMPETITIVE SALARY + ACCOMMODATION + BONUSAre you a dynamic hospitability professional looking for more than just another pub management role? Imagine running a beautifully renovated 17th century Free House, set in stunning Shropshire countryside, where you''ll have the freedom to create something special with the backing of a passionate community. The Fox at Ryton isn''t just a pub - it''s the beating heart of our village, saved by the community it serves, and now ready for its next exciting chapter.We''re seeking an exceptional manager / general manager team who share our vision of creating a destination pub that combines excellent food and drink with true community spirit. With a newly renovated building, upgraded commercial kitchen, and modern on-site accommodation, The Fox offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern facilities. This is your chance to write the next chapter in our pub''s 340-year history, supported by committed shareholders and an engaged local community.Background : The Fox is a historic 17th century pub that is currently being renovated with 52 indoor covers plus c25 covers outdoors, and an upgraded commercial kitchen. Following its closure in September 2022, the community rallied together to save this vital village asset, raising substantial funds through community shares, a government grant, and donations. The pub will reopen in November 2025 following extensive renovation.What Makes The Fox Special:Strong community support with over 260 shareholders from 14 local villagesBeautiful location in rural Shropshire situated between Shrewsbury and Church Stretton, overlooking the Shropshire Hills AONBSignificant tourist potential from nearby holiday cottages, caravan sites and walking/cycling routesNo other pub within the Parish of CondoverProven track record of success under previous long-term ownersHistoric building dating back to 1680Support from an engaged Board of Directors and dedicated volunteer baseThe Opportunity:
We seek an experienced and entrepreneurial professional to run The Fox as a thriving pub that is both commercially successful and a true community hub. The position includes a competitive salary (DOE), pension, on-site accommodation (a modern 2 bedroom / 2 reception room flat above the pub), and potential Bonus.Key Responsibilities:Overall management and day-to-day operations of The Fox public houseDeliver high quality food and beverage service to customers that attracts both locals and visitorsManage all staff including recruitment, training, rotas, and performanceFinancial management including cash handling, budgeting, stock controlEnsure compliance with all relevant legislation and regulationsMaintain the premises, equipment and facilities to a high standardWork closely with the Management Committee to implement strategy and visionFoster strong relationships with all groups in our community, actively participate in community life and understand local needsOversee and support the volunteer-led community coffee shop and pop-up shop operating from The Fox several mornings per weekPromote and market The Fox to drive footfall and revenueRequired Experience and Qualities:Track record of running a successful food-led pub or similar hospitality businessExperience managing a diverse customer base from locals to touristsStrong organizational and planning skillsCreative approach to marketing and eventsCommitment to supporting local suppliers and producersEnthusiasm for being part of rural community lifeUnderstanding of the unique aspects of community-owned businessesAbility to balance commercial success with community benefitThe Ideal Candidate Will:Share our vision of The Fox as both a successful business and vital community assetHave the energy and ideas to make The Fox a destination pubBring warmth and personality to create a welcoming atmosphere for allHave the commercial acumen to drive sustainable successBe passionate about quality food, drink and serviceEmbrace the community ownership model and work effectively with volunteersWant to become active members of our communitySupport Structure:Engaged Board of Directors with diverse business skillsStrong volunteer base for community initiativesEstablished relationships with local suppliersMarketing and events support from dedicated DirectorRegular communication channels with shareholders and communityThis is a unique opportunity to run a beautiful historic pub with strong community backing and the potential for significant growth. The successful candidates will have the autonomy to shape The Fox''s future while benefiting from the support and resources of an engaged community ownership ..... full job details .....