Are you an experienced and passionate hotelier looking for your next rewarding challenge in the beautiful Lake District? Windermere Manor Hotel is seeking a General Manager who can bring strong leadership, a commitment to exceptional guest service, and the steady hand needed to guide the hotel through an exciting period of development and growth. This is a full-time, hands-on position in a unique and charming property which comes with a salary of £50,000 p.a. plus benefits.
The Role
Windermere Manor Hotel is a well-established part of the family-owned Starboard Hotels group, which operates over 20 hotels across the UK. Set within beautiful gardens with views towards Lake Windermere, the hotel and its cottage annex offer 35 individual bedrooms, a welcoming bar and restaurant, and a heated indoor swimming pool.
There are significant plans under way for renovation and investment across the property, creating an ideal opportunity for a General Manager who can provide stability, maintain strong operational standards, and lead the team confidently through upcoming improvements. As the hotel is located in a highly competitive area for hospitality talent, you will also play a key role in recruiting and building a loyal, engaged team.
Responsibilities
• Provide clear and strategic leadership, fostering a positive work culture and ensuring the highest levels of guest service.
• Oversee all areas of hotel operations, ensuring smooth, efficient, and well-coordinated daily performance.
• Develop and implement sales and marketing strategies to maximise revenue, drive occupancy, and build strong relationships with key partners.
• Monitor financial performance, manage budgets, control costs, and implement initiatives that protect quality while improving profitability.
• Recruit, train, and support a high-performing team, with particular focus on navigating the challenges of hiring in a rural recruitment market.
• Ensure compliance with legal, safety, and industry standards and keep informed of sector trends and best practice.
• Handle guest feedback promptly, with a focus on resolving issues and enhancing overall satisfaction.
• Work collaboratively with Starboard Hotels’ central teams and contribute to planning, reporting, and decision making.
Required Skills and Experience
• At least 3 years of hands-on experience as a General Manager in a quality 3 or 4-star hotel.
• Proven ability to drive F and B quality, consistency, and profitability.
• Strong experience in hotel operations, commercial performance, and achieving targets.
• Excellent leadership skills, with the ability to recruit, motivate, and inspire a successful team.
• Confident communicator with a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive, practical approach.
• Familiarity with industry software including PMS systems.
What you can expect in return
• Salary of £50,000 plus benefits
• Life assurance
• BUPA private health care
• Discretionary bonus
• Pension scheme
• Employee discounts
• 40 hour working week
• 28 days holiday including bank holidays
• Day off on your birthday
… and more.
This is a rare chance to lead a charming Lake District property at a pivotal moment in its journey. If you are ready to bring stability, energy, and vision to Windermere Manor Hotel, we would love to hear from you.