Expire in: a month
Job Title: General Manager
Location: Knepp Estate, Dial Post, Horsham (applicants must be able to drive to the site as there is no public transport available)
Salary: Salary details will be shared and discussed during the interview stage
Job Type: Permanent, Full Time
Knepp is a pioneering 3,500-acre rewilding project in West Sussex, internationally recognised for its radical approach to restoring biodiversity and natural processes. Alongside our ecological work, the Wilding Kitchen & Shop is the public heart of the Knepp experience - serving food inspired by our landscape, championing regenerative produce, and connecting visitors to nature through exceptional hospitality and ethical retail.
The Wilding Kitchen has recently been recognised by the Michelin Guide, a reflection of our team's dedication to honest, ingredient-led cooking and our commitment to showcasing the abundance that rewilding and regenerative farming can bring.
About the role:
As a key member of the team, you will manage and oversee the performance of the onsite restaurant and shop. Your key duties will encompass:
Operations & Performance
Ensure smooth daily operations with exceptional attention to service quality, safety, and efficiency
Develop and implement systems and processes that improve consistency, productivity, and guest satisfaction
Oversee financial performance - managing budgets, forecasts, cost control, and KPIs
Maintain excellent standards of presentation and functionality across the restaurant, shop, and shared spacesCustomer Experience
Ensure every visitor receives a warm, knowledgeable, and memorable experience
Champion hospitality that reflects Knepp's authenticity and connection to nature
Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to develop events, seasonal menus, and visitor offers that deepen engagementRetail & Supply Chain
Help sourcing and curation of retail and restaurant products that align with Knepp's principles - local, ethical, seasonal, and regenerative
Help build strong relationships with local and regenerative suppliers
Oversee stock control, pricing, and merchandising to maximise sales and minimise wasteSustainability & Impact
Help embed Knepp's sustainability ethos in all aspects of restaurant and shop operations
Monitor environmental impact and implement initiatives to reduce waste, energy use, and carbon footprint
Collaborate with Knepp's wider team to integrate rewilding and regenerative food storytelling into the visitor experienceProject expansion
To advise and lead on new initiatives: Online shop
Collaborations
Car parking charges
MarketingAbout you
Essential:
Proven experience in hospitality, restaurant, and retail
Strong leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to manage, motivate, and develop diverse teams
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with a customer-first mindset
Sound financial management skills - budgeting, forecasting, and reporting
Good knowledge, or willingness to learn about sustainability
Ability to balance hands-on operational management with strategic leadership
Experience of reporting and interacting with family owners/board members
Experience in working as part of a large organisation
Strong knowledge of employment law and employer responsibilities
Experience of managing a team of 50+
Must be able driveDesirable:
Experience working within a purpose-led or environmental organisation
Knowledge of regenerative agriculture, farm-to-fork supply chains, or sustainable retail
Experience in event management, tourism, or rural hospitality
Familiarity with Knepp's work and ethosEmployee Perks Benefits:
Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
KPI linked Bonus'
Generous staff discounts & holiday allowance
Opportunities for professional development and engagement with Knepp's rewilding initiatives
Weekly staff Yoga
Good work life balance, very few evenings, one weekend day off a week
A chance to play a leading role in one of the UK's most inspiring sustainability projects
Free camping at our award-winning campsite
Complimentary safari in our rewilding project
Accommodation a possibility
Free parkingPlease click on the APPLY button to submit your CV for this role.
Overseas candidates will NOT be considered for this role. We are not sponsoring Visa's at this time, so please refrain from applying unless eligible to work in the UK
Candidates with the relevant experience or job titles of: Restaurant Operations Manager, F&B Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, General Manager, General Manager - Hospitality, Restaurant Manager, Hospitality Manager, Retail Manager, Area Manager, Store Manager may also be considered for this roleDo not include the following in your job application, CV, or cover letter:
You should not be asked for payment or irrelevant information. If you have concerns about a job advert or employer, seek guidance on how to proceed.
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