Deputy General Manager – Oriels Cocktail Bar & Eatery, Exeter
About Us
Oriels is opening soon and will provide Exeter with a new premium cocktail bar and eatery in the heart of the City. We want to be known for stylish décor, expertly crafted cocktails, vibrant entertainment, and relaxed dining. We will deliver high-end hospitality with a lively atmosphere, blending classic service with modern energy. We're now looking for a passionate and driven Deputy General Manager to support our General Manager in leading the business day-to-day from opening.
The Role
As Deputy General Manager, you'll play a key role in the success of Oriels — ensuring exceptional standards across our bar, kitchen, and front-of-house teams. You'll help manage operations, develop staff, and curate an atmosphere that places Oriels as the city's go-to destination for cocktails, food, and live entertainment.
Key Responsibilities
Bar & Cocktail Management
* Oversee daily bar operations, ensuring consistency in cocktail preparation, presentation, and service.
* Work with the GM and Head Bartender to develop seasonal cocktail menus and signature serves.
* Ensure stock levels, ordering, and supplier relationships are effectively managed.
* Get behind brand activations and seasonal initiatives, driving sales and engaging with customers to help support our amazing brand partners.
Team Leadership & HR
* Support with recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing training of bar, floor, and kitchen staff.
* Manage staff rotas to balance labour efficiency with high levels of service.
* Lead by example on shift, motivating and supporting the team.
* Handle HR duties including performance management, absence tracking, and conflict resolution.
* BRING THE FUN We want our team to be friendly, funny and relatable. The driving ethos behind Oriels is guest experience, and we want our DGM to lead our team in delivering exceptional service.
Operational & Kitchen Duties
* Oversee smooth coordination between bar, floor, and kitchen operations.
* Monitor food and drink quality to maintain Oriels' premium standards.
* Support our Kitchen Team with kitchen compliance, stock rotation, and hygiene practices.
Atmosphere & Entertainment
* Contribute to the planning and delivery of live entertainment, DJs, and events.
* Ensure lighting, music, and service flow create the desired atmosphere for guests.
* Act as a visible host during service, engaging with guests and ensuring they enjoy a memorable experience.
Compliance & Administration
* Ensure full compliance with licensing, health & safety, and food hygiene regulations.
* Manage cash handling, daily reporting, and assist with budget targets.
* Deputise for the General Manager in their absence, taking full responsibility for the venue.
About You
* Previous experience as an Assistant or Deputy General Manager in a bar, restaurant, or hospitality venue is preferable but we will consider candidates from a retail management or event management background.
* Strong cocktail knowledge with a passion for premium drinks and service standards.
* Confident leader with proven ability to motivate and manage teams.
* Organised and proactive, with strong rota, HR, and operational management skills.
* A natural host who thrives in lively, entertainment-driven environments.
* Must have a personal license.
* First Aid at Work desirable.
* Candidates should live within a reasonable commute of Exeter City Centre and be able to work both daytime and nighttime hours.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
* Opportunity to shape menus, events, and guest experience at one of Exeter's most exciting venues.
* A supportive management team and clear progression opportunities.
* Staff perks, discounts, and team socials.
* Annual Events, Holidays and Incentives.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £25,000.00-£30,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Casual dress
* Company events
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Flexitime
* Transport links
Work Location: In person
Reference ID: ORIELS DM
Expected start date: 20/10/2025