Hospitality General Manager

The Story of Emily is a nationally significant heritage visitor attraction and cultural destination in Cornwall, part of the Babylonstoren and The Newt group. The General Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, performance, sustainability, and public standing of the business.

This is a senior leadership role combining commercial management, heritage stewardship, hospitality excellence, and community representation.

Purpose of the role:

To lead The Story of Emily as a sustainable, high-quality heritage and hospitality business, delivering its cultural mission, financial performance, and long-term growth through strong strategy, disciplined execution, and outstanding people leadership.

Requirements and Responsibilities:

• Must be fluent in English and preferably Afrikaans
• Must hold a relevant bachelors degree
• Accommodation and sponsorship assistance is available for the right candidate

1. Strategy, Planning & Delivery

• Lead the creation and delivery of the sites strategythrough the annual business planning and budgeting process.
• Translate long-term objectives into clear operational plans, capital programmes, and growth initiatives.
• Ensure all departments are aligned behind the agreed business plan and performance targets.

2. Financial Leadership & Governance

Full ownership of the site P&L, including revenue, cost control, margin, and investment decisions.

Ensure decisions are made within the framework of good financial governance, risk management, and accountability.

Oversee pricing, staffing models, and capital investment to maximise long-term sustainability.

3. Operations & Guest Experience

Overall leadership of all site operations including:

oVisitor experience (Rectory, War Rooms, exhibitions, hosting)

oRestaurant, retail and events

oGrounds, gardens, and estate presentation

oTechnical and exhibition systems

Ensure consistently high standards of safety, reliability, storytelling, and hospitality.

4. Property & Landlord Responsibilities

Act as landlord for all properties on site, including staff accommodation and rental properties.

Ensure full legal and regulatory complianceacross:

oHealth & Safety

oGas, electrical and fire compliance

oLetting and tenancy obligations

oProperty maintenance and risk management

5. People Leadership, Culture & Conflict Resolution

Lead and develop the full management and frontline team.

Handle dispute resolution, conflict management, and performance managementto maintain a healthy, respectful and productive working culture.

Build a high-trust leadership team capable of delivering both day-to-day operations and long-term growth.

6. Stakeholder & Shareholder Reporting

Own the formal reporting processto senior stakeholders and shareholders.

Provide clear, accurate and timely updateson:

oFinancial performance

oOperational health

oRisks and issues

oStrategic progress

7. External Representation & Profile

Represent The Story of Emily at:

oLocal, national and international conferences

oIndustry events and awards

oCommunity and heritage forums

Deliver presentations to interest groups, media, and partnersfor promotional and educational purposes.

Act as the public face of the attractionwith:

oLocal government

oCommunity organisations

oTourism bodies

oAwards and heritage institutions

8. Partnerships & Reputation

• Build and manage relationships with:
  • Local councils and tourism organisations
  • Community groups
  • Cultural and heritage bodies
  • Suppliers, sponsors and partners
• Protect and enhance the reputation, credibility, and national profileof The Story of Emily.

Remuneration:

Relocation and arrangement of working permit included.

A competitive annual package.

International travel opportunities.

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