General Manager — The Lifeboat Inn, Thornham

£50,000 + Tronc | Full Time

If you know the North Norfolk coast, you probably know The Lifeboat. It’s one of those pubs people talk about — full of history, character and the kind of charm you just can’t fake.

We are now looking for a General Manager who can build on the reputation of this coastal property and who wants to shape what comes next. You’ll bring hands-on leadership, commercial awareness, and an instinct for guest experience - from the food & drink to the warm welcomes and memorable stays.

If you’re the kind of leader who loves a pub with personality and purpose, you’ll feel right at home here.

What the Role’s All About...

As General Manager, you’ll be the person who brings the building to life - shaping the atmosphere, nurturing the team, building a friendly atmosphere, and ensuring every guest experiences the warm, steady hospitality The Lifeboat is known for.

You’ll:

• Lead and inspire both FOH and BOH teams

• Work closely with your Head Chef and Assistant Manager to keep everything running smoothly

• Make sure the guest experience is warm, consistent and memorable

• Recruit, train and support a team you’re genuinely proud of

• Keep a close eye on stock, standards and commercial performance

• Build a positive, inclusive and motivated culture

• Play a key role in shaping the future direction of the pub as it continues to grow and evolve

About You...

You’re a supportive, hands‑on leader who knows how to make a property feel welcoming — calm, steady and well looked after. You bring people together, lead with care, and take pride in creating a place guests want to return to.. You’ll bring:

• A track record in quality pubs, inns or hospitality venues

• A guest‑first approach backed by strong commercial judgement

• Confidence, presence and the ability to inspire a team

• Ambition to grow with a business that invests in people and places

Why Join Chestnut?

Chestnut is a group of premium properties and inns across East Anglia, each with its own identity. The Lifeboat is one of our key coastal properties, carrying real visibility and impact within the collection.

We’re proudly independent, people-first, and we give our managers the trust and freedom to make each site feel like theirs. You’ll have plenty of support from our experienced Ops teams - and the space to put your own stamp on a much‑loved coastal property that’s entering an exciting phase of evolution.

Benefits & Perks

• Performance bonus schemes

• Team & individual incentive trips

• 50% discount on food across all Chestnut pubs

• Overnight stays from £75

• Friends & Family discounts

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Refer‑a‑Friend bonuses

• High-street retail & travel discounts

• Wagestream access

• Accredited training & leadership development

Fancy leading one of the coast’s most loved pubs?

If this feels like the right next step for you apply today - We'd love to hear from you!

INDHP