Job Description
Location: Bewaldeth
We are looking for a General Manager to join our team at Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat in Cockermouth, Cumbria. Fantastic competitive salary!
This is a permanent position to work full time hours. It will involve variable days, including weekends and bank holidays.
On-site accommodation is available. Flexibility is essential to suit the needs of the business.
Company Overview
Darwin Escapes has 18 amazing destinations across the United Kingdom, each with its own unique offering. Whether you are looking for a role in food and beverage, grounds, maintenance, housekeeping, entertainment or at a management level, the Darwin family will have the career waiting for you!
About The Role
As General Manager, you will lead all aspects of the retreat’s operations, ensuring high-quality guest experiences, strong financial performance, and an excellent working environment for staff. You’ll be a key leader who drives service standards, oversees daily operations, and implements strategic initiatives to grow the business and uphold the retreat’s reputation.
Main responsibilities
Key responsibilities include:
* Liaise with the Operations Director to manage the Resort.
* Be responsible for the day to day running and efficient operations of the Resort.
* Ensure staff motivation is high and be sure that staff are trained.
* Liaise with Head of Department to manage budgets.
* Ensure the effective structure of the Resort.
Guest Experience
* Foster a guest-focused culture across the team.
* Handle escalated guest issues and ensure concerns are resolved promptly and professionally.
* Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements to enhance overall experience.
* Maintain a visible presence around the park to engage guests and staff.
Financial & Business Management
* Manage budgets, control costs, and track performance against financial targets.
* Oversee revenue management, pricing strategies, and occupancy optimization.
* Produce regular financial and operational reports for senior leadership or owners.
* Identify opportunities for new revenue streams, improvements, or park enhancements.
Team Leadership
* Provide coaching and leadership to department managers and team members.
* Schedule staff, manage performance reviews, and maintain a positive working environment.
* Ensure all employees follow company policies and compliance requirements.
* Promote events, activities, and special offers to attract and retain guests.
* Build positive relationships with local authorities, suppliers, and community stakeholders.
Skills & Qualifications
* Proven experience in resort management.
* Strong leadership and team-building skills.
* Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
* Financial literacy, including budgeting and forecasting.
* Ability to remain calm under pressure and resolve conflicts.
* Knowledge of compliance, health & safety, and operational best practices.
Personal Attributes
* Guest centric and service driven.
* Hands on, proactive, and adaptable.
* Professional, friendly, and approachable.
* Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
What’s In It For You
* Competitive rate of pay.
* Enhanced holiday entitlement (*with the option to cash in a number of holidays per year).
* Discounted staff breaks at our luxurious holiday resorts across the UK.
* Free use of all Darwin Escapes resort facilities including many of our free gyms and swimming pools.
* Food discount across all resorts.
* Discounts on spa treatments.
* *'Introduce a friend' recruitment bonus.
* *Company employee sick pay.
* Compassionate leave pay.
* Employee Assistance Programme.
* Free access to the Darwin Academy training programme to help further your career and skill levels.
* Cycle to work scheme.
* MediCash cash plan.
* Subject to terms and conditions
Required Criteria
* Right to Live and work in the UK.
* Excellent customer service and strong communication skills.
* Previous holiday resort/hospitality experience.
* Excellent customer service and communication skills and a positive work ethic.
Desired Criteria
* A driving licence and ability to drive is an advantage to enable easy travel to and from the retreat.
Closing Date: Saturday 31st January, 2026
Contract Type: fulltime
Salary: Based on Experience
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