Restaurant Cafe Manager jobs in Leeds

About The Millhouse Bistro

The Millhouse Bistro is an all-day dining destination based in the heart of Meltham Mills, serving elevated yet familiar food in a stunning setting overlooking the valley.

Open from breakfast through to evening dining and Sunday roasts, The Millhouse Bistro combines warm hospitality, strong service standards and a focus on creating memorable guest experiences from morning coffee through to candlelit evenings.

We are now looking for an experienced and driven General Manager to lead the business day-to-day and help shape the next phase of growth.

The Role

As General Manager, you will take full responsibility for the daily operation of the restaurant, leading from the front to ensure exceptional guest experiences, strong financial performance and a positive culture across the business.

This is a hands-on role suited to a passionate hospitality leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in high standards across service, food quality, team development and operational excellence.

You will work closely with the owners and senior management team to drive the business forward while building a strong team culture and maintaining the atmosphere and reputation The Millhouse Bistro is becoming known for.

Key Responsibilities
Restaurant Operations

• Oversee all daily operations across breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and Sunday service
• Lead service from the floor while maintaining exceptional guest interaction
• Ensure high standards of cleanliness, presentation and atmosphere throughout the venue
• Manage opening and closing procedures
• Maintain compliance with all health & safety, licensing and food hygiene regulations
• Ensure all operational checklists and systems are completed consistently

Team Leadership

• Lead, motivate and develop the front of house team
• Manage rotas and staffing levels in line with business demands and labour targets
• Deliver training and ongoing coaching to maintain service standards
• Conduct regular team briefings and performance reviews
• Support recruitment, onboarding and retention of team members
• Create a positive, professional and accountable working culture

Guest Experience

• Deliver exceptional hospitality and ensure every guest receives warm, attentive service
• Handle guest feedback and complaints professionally and proactively
• Build relationships with regular guests and local community members
• Drive review generation and maintain strong online reputation scores

Financial & Commercial Management

• Work towards weekly and monthly sales targets
• Monitor labour costs, wage percentages and operational efficiencies
• Support stock management and ordering processes
• Analyse service performance and identify opportunities to increase spend per head and repeat business
• Work alongside ownership on events, activations and business growth opportunities

Standards & Culture

• Lead by example at all times
• Maintain a strong floor presence during service
• Ensure attention to detail across all areas of the business
• Support a culture focused on teamwork, consistency and pride in hospitality

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience as a General Manager or senior management role within a quality restaurant environment
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Excellent organisational and communication abilities
• Commercially aware with experience managing labour and operational costs
• Passion for hospitality and guest experience
• Calm under pressure with strong problem-solving skills
• Hands-on approach with willingness to support all areas of the business
• A genuine desire to help build and grow an ambitious independent hospitality brand

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £35,000 – £45,000
• Strong opportunities for progression within a growing hospitality business
• Staff discounts across the group
• Supportive ownership team with genuine investment in the business
• Opportunity to play a key role in an exciting independent restaurant concept
• A stunning working environment in the heart of Meltham Mills

Pay: £35,000.00-£45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person