We’re looking for a personable and experienced Operations
Manager to join our team and lead a portfolio of distinctive inns and
hospitality venues across Norfolk. This is an exciting opportunity for a
thoughtful, people-focused leader with a deep appreciation for the region —
someone who sets high standards, empowers others, and champions heartfelt
hospitality.
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Who We Are
At Chestnut, we’re proud to own and operate a growing
collection of pubs, inns and restaurants rooted in the East of England —
including some of Norfolk’s most admired destinations. From coastal hideaways
to countryside retreats, every property reflects its setting and community.
Together, we deliver genuine hospitality grounded in real people, real places,
and a real love for what we do.
As a business, we’re evolving — expanding our collection,
investing in our people, and introducing new initiatives that enhance the guest
and team experience. But throughout, we remain true to the spirit of each
venue: proudly independent, locally led, and full of character.
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The Role
As Operations Manager, you’ll lead a group of Norfolk-based
venues, working closely with General Managers and their teams to elevate the
guest experience, grow performance, and foster a culture of care and
collaboration. You’ll be a key voice in driving progress — supporting the
rollout of company initiatives while respecting and retaining each property's
individual charm.
This is a hands-on, strategic role for someone who thrives
on mentoring others, managing change with sensitivity, and contributing to a
dynamic, values-led business.
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Key Responsibilities
* Inspire,
coach, and develop General Managers to lead high-performing, guest-focused
teams
* Uphold
standards of quality and consistency across food, drink, service and
accommodation
* Drive
performance through strategic planning, forecasting and hands-on
leadership
* Collaborate
closely with our central teams across people, finance, marketing and
operations
* Champion
and embed new business initiatives in a way that complements local
identity
* Identify
and implement meaningful improvements in guest experience and team
development
* Be a
proud ambassador for Chestnut’s culture, community focus, and commitment
to local, sustainable hospitality
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What We’re Looking For
* Proven
experience leading multi-site operations in hospitality or premium
lifestyle venues
* A
natural people-leader with a nurturing approach and strong coaching
mindset
* Commercially
confident, with sound understanding of budgeting, forecasting and P&L
control
* A
passion for Norfolk – its landscapes, producers and communities – and a
desire to help it thrive
* Calm,
flexible, and solutions-driven with a hands-on attitude and strategic
outlook
* Comfortable
managing change and aligning diverse teams around shared goals
* Based
in or near Norfolk with a full UK driving licence and willingness to
travel regularly
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What We Offer
* A leadership role within a
growing, values-led business with local roots
* The opportunity to shape
and support a talented, passionate group of teams
* Competitive salary £70,000 OTE
* Team & Individual
Incentives – Enjoy rewards for your hard work, including staff days
out and even trips abroad.
* Bonus Schemes –
Performance-based rewards to recognise your contribution.
* Employee Assistance Programme
(EAP) – Free, confidential support for wellbeing, finances, and more.
* Team Parties & Social
Events – Regular events to connect, relax, and celebrate together.
* Work Anniversary Rewards –
Your commitment is celebrated every year.
* Refer a Friend Scheme –
Recommend a friend and earn a cash bonus when they join us.
* Wine Discounts –
Enjoy exclusive pricing on carefully selected wines.
* Family & Friends Discounts –
Share special perks with those you care about.
* Team Discounts – Up to 50% off your
food bill at our venues.
* Overnight Stays from £75 –
Take a break at any Chestnut property at a reduced rate.
* High Street Discounts –
Save on retail, dining, and travel with exclusive deals.
* Flexible Hours – We
help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
* Learning & Development –
Grow your career with access to accredited training courses and
continuous development opportunities.
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Love Norfolk. Love hospitality. Love leading with
purpose.
Help shape the future of East Anglian hospitality with Chestnut.
Apply now and become part of something truly special.