Assistant Restaurant and Bar Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Opportunity

Are you an ambitious hospitality professional with a passion for fine dining? Downham Hall is a 2 AA Rosette restaurant with 5 star rooms set in the heart of the Essex countryside. We are seeking a dedicated Assistant Manager to lead our Front of House team and oversee our bespoke evening events.

The Role

You will work closely with the Owners, Head Chef, and Operations Manager to nurture this new venue. You will be responsible for:

• Daily Operations: Leading the restaurant and bar service for lunch, Afternoon Tea, and 2 AA Rosette evening dining.
• Events Management: Taking the lead on intimate, food-focused weddings and private dining events.
• Team Leadership: Mentoring a small, passionate team to maintain and exceed rosette standards.
• Business Growth: Assisting with the promotion and nurturing of the restaurant to reach new accolades.
• Service Excellence: Ensuring exceptional wine knowledge and high-end service standards are met consistently.

Shift Pattern

• Full-time hours including evenings and weekends.
• A mix of restaurant service and event supervision.

Requirements

• Experience: Proven leadership experience within a fine dining restaurant or luxury hotel environment.
• Expertise: Strong wine knowledge and experience working to Rosette/Michelin standards.
• Skills: Exceptional organisational and communication skills; the ability to lead autonomously.
• Traits: Drive, ambition, and a genuine love for the theatre of hospitality.
• Transport: Due to our beautiful countryside location, access to private transport is essential.

Why Join Us?

• Work in a stunning, high-spec 5-star environment.
• Be part of a friendly, family-run team that values hard work and creativity.
• Real autonomy to influence the direction of a new and growing business.
• Competitive salary and career progression opportunities.

How to Apply

If you have the drive to push a venue to the next level, we want to hear from you. To apply, please send an email to the address below with a short description of your previous work experience and your phone number:

christina@downhamhall.com

Downham Hall is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experience levels.