Hospitality General Manager (Heritage Site)

Hospitality General Manager

Location: Cornwall (ideal candidate based in South Africa who will relocate to the UK)

Salary: Competitive with benefits

Start Date: As soon as possible

Our client seeks an experienced and dynamic Hospitality General Manager to oversee operations within their hospitality business based in Cornwall. This leadership role involves managing all aspects of the hospitality service to ensure excellent guest experiences, operational efficiency, and business profitability.

This is a beautiful, nationally significant heritage visitor attraction and cultural destination in Cornwall, part of a larger group based in South Africa and England.

The General Manager is a vital role, responsible for the overall leadership, performance, sustainability, and public standing of the business.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy, Planning & Execution

Lead the development and delivery of the site’s strategic direction through an integrated annual business planning and budgeting process.

Translate long-term vision into clear, actionable operational plans, capital programmes, and growth initiatives.

Ensure full organisational alignment behind agreed objectives, priorities, and performance targets.

Financial Leadership & Governance

Take full ownership of the site’s P&L, including revenue growth, cost control, margin management, and investment decisions.

Ensure all financial decisions are grounded in strong governance, robust risk management, and clear accountability.

Oversee pricing strategies, workforce planning, and capital allocation to support long-term financial sustainability.

Operations & Visitor Experience

Provide overarching leadership across all aspects of site operations, including:

Visitor experience (Rectory, War Rooms, exhibitions, and hosting)

Hospitality, including restaurant, retail, and events

Grounds, gardens, and overall estate presentation

Technical infrastructure and exhibition systems

Maintain exceptional standards of safety, operational reliability, storytelling, and hospitality at all times.

Property & Estate Management

Act as landlord for all on-site properties, including staff accommodation and rental units.

Ensure full compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including:

Health & Safety standards

Gas, electrical, and fire regulations

Letting and tenancy obligations

Ongoing property maintenance and risk management

People Leadership & Culture

Lead, develop, and inspire both management and frontline teams to deliver high performance.

Foster a positive, respectful, and accountable working culture through effective performance management and conflict resolution.

Build a cohesive, high-trust leadership team capable of delivering operational excellence and long-term strategic growth.

Stakeholder & Shareholder Reporting

Own and manage all formal reporting to senior stakeholders and shareholders.

Provide clear, accurate, and timely insights on:

Financial performance

Operational effectiveness

Key risks and challenges

Progress against strategic objectives

External Representation & Public Profile

Act as the ambassador and public face of the visitor attraction.

Represent the organisation at local, national, and international conferences, industry events, and heritage forums.

Deliver presentations to media, partners, and interest groups for both promotional and educational purposes.

Engage with key external stakeholders, including:

Local and regional government

Community organisations

Tourism bodies

Heritage and cultural institutions

Partnerships & Reputation Management

Develop and maintain strong, strategic relationships with:

Local councils and tourism organisations

Community and cultural groups

Heritage bodies and institutions

Suppliers, sponsors, and commercial partners

Safeguard and enhance the reputation, credibility, and national profile of the organisation as a leading heritage and cultural destination.

Requirements

Candidate Requirements

Proven experience in hospitality management, preferably as a General Manager or similar senior role.

Strong leadership and team management skills.

Excellent customer service and communication abilities.

Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and controlling costs.

Ability to work under pressure and resolve issues efficiently.

Knowledge of health and safety regulations within the hospitality industry.

Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.

Tertiary qualification in hospitality or related field.

Bilingual in Afrikaans and English.

Benefits

Relocation and arrangement of working permit included.

A competitive annual package.

International travel opportunities.