Area Manager – Hospitality & Retail (Southampton)

About the role

We are partnering with a well‑established restaurant group to find a people‑focused Area Manager who will oversee multiple sites across Southampton and the Basingstoke region. You will drive operational excellence, enhance the customer experience, and develop high‑performing teams while working towards a future Regional Manager position.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop Store/Restaurant Managers to achieve outstanding results.
• Conduct regular site visits focusing on health & safety, customer satisfaction, productivity vs payroll, and commercial standards.
• Analyse regional performance data and implement strategies to improve people and business metrics.
• Identify training needs and support succession planning across the area.
• Ensure full compliance with company policies, procedures and HR matters.

Required profile

• Current experience as an Area Manager, Cluster Manager or Regional Manager.
• Strong background in a customer‑focused, people‑led environment such as hospitality, restaurants, QSR or retail.
• Proven track record of developing high‑performing teams.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to drive profitability.
• Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel across the region.

Required skills

What we offer

• Highly competitive salary (£65,000‑£75,000 per year).
• Company car.
• Excellent overall benefits package.