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. 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. Relocation and arrangement of working permit included. A competitive annual package. International travel opportunities.