We are seeking an ambitious, commercially minded Hotel General Manager to lead a premium hotel in West Sussex.
This opportunity would suit an accomplished Deputy General Manager or Hotel Operations Manager ready to take their first General Manager position, as well as an existing GM looking for their next challenge. A background within premium upper midscale hotels is essential, with country hotel and leisure experience particularly desirable.
The successful candidate will be a visible, hands-on leader who combines excellent guest care with strong operational and financial management. You will take ownership of the hotel’s performance, develop a motivated team and ensure consistently high standards throughout the guest experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operation of the hotel, ensuring departments work together effectively.
- Maintain high standards across front office, housekeeping, food and beverage, maintenance and any leisure facilities.
- Deliver a welcoming, attentive guest experience, handling feedback and resolving concerns professionally.
- Recruit, coach and develop department heads and their teams, building a positive and accountable working culture.
- Manage budgets, forecasts, payroll and operating costs, balancing profitability with service quality.
- Work closely with sales and revenue teams to grow occupancy, room rates and wider hotel revenue.
- Identify opportunities to strengthen leisure business, repeat bookings and local partnerships.
- Oversee property presentation, maintenance planning and ongoing improvements.
- Ensure compliance with relevant health and safety, food hygiene, licensing and employment requirements.
- Report to ownership or senior management on financial performance, operational priorities and team development.
Candidate Profile
- A strong track record as a Deputy General Manager, Operations Manager or General Manager within a premium upper midscale hotel.
- Country hotel experience and an understanding of the leisure market would be advantageous.
- Experience overseeing multiple hotel departments, including accommodation and food and beverage.
- Strong commercial awareness, with confidence managing budgets, reviewing performance and controlling costs.
- An approachable, hands-on leadership style, with the ability to motivate teams and develop future leaders.
- Excellent communication skills and a natural ability to build relationships with guests, colleagues and owners.
- Sound judgement, attention to detail and a calm, practical approach to problem-solving.
- Flexibility to work according to the needs of a seven-day hospitality operation.
This is an excellent opportunity for a rising hotel leader to take ownership of an operation, shape its culture and make a meaningful contribution to its continued success.
Location: West Sussex
Salary: £60,000-£70,000 gross per annum, dependent on experience, plus a performance-based bonus
REF: S&W#3702114
