Managing Director

Date posted: 1 April 2025

Location: Ideally South West or Cardiff

Salary: Negotiable with equity

Reporting line: Board and Founders

The Managing Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our business as we focus on expanding our footprint and enhancing our operational efficiencies. This role demands a dynamic leader who can balance strategic vision with hands-on operational management to ensure a seamless and consistent guest experience across all locations. The Managing Director will be responsible for defining and implementing growth strategies, driving operational improvements, and building a culture of excellence and innovation within the team. By closely monitoring industry trends and consumer preferences, this leader will guide our business into new markets and elevate our brand to new heights, all while maintaining a firm eye on delivering exceptional value and quality to our customers.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

1. An exciting opportunity to shape and lead a growing brand in the nightlife industry in the UK.
2. Competitive salary and performance-based incentives including lucrative bonus scheme and equity.
3. Join our thriving nightlife brand and gain significant equity in the company. As we continue to grow, this equity offers the potential for substantial financial returns in the short term. Be part of shaping our future while directly benefiting from our success.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As Managing Director at The Bootlegger, your main responsibilities include:

Strategic Leadership

1. Develop and implement the overall strategic vision of the bar chain.
2. Identify growth opportunities, including potential new locations and expansion strategies.
3. Develop and implement the business plan.

Financial Management

1. Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and the profitability of each bar.
2. Analyse financial reports to make informed decisions that enhance revenue and reduce costs.

Operational Oversight

1. Ensure all bars operate smoothly and consistently adhere to high standards of service and quality.
2. Implement and monitor efficient operational procedures and policies.

Team Leadership and Development

1. Lead and motivate the management team and staff across all locations.
2. Develop a strong culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous improvement.
3. Ensure ongoing training and development programs are in place for staff.

Brand Management & Marketing

1. Maintain and enhance the brand's image and reputation within the industry.
2. Oversee marketing and promotional activities to increase brand visibility and customer engagement.

Customer Experience

1. Ensure exceptional customer service and bar experiences that align with the brand's values.
2. Gather and act on customer feedback to continuously improve the patron experience.

Compliance and Risk Management

1. Ensure all locations comply with local and government regulations, including health, safety, and licensing laws.
2. Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential business risks.

Relationship Management

1. Build and sustain strong relationships with suppliers, partners, and key stakeholders.
2. Pursue strategic partnerships and collaborations that enhance the brand.

Reporting and Communication

1. Report to and communicate regularly with the board of directors or ownership group/investors on business performance and strategic initiatives.
2. Foster open communication channels within the organization to ensure alignment and transparency.

The Managing Director's role is pivotal in steering the overall success and growth of the Bootlegger, ensuring it remains competitive and profitable in the vibrant nightlife industry.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

1. Proven experience as a Managing Director or in a senior leadership role within the hospitality industry, ideally within a multi-location bar or restaurant chain that has been through a scale up.
2. Strong track record of successful operational management and expansion.
3. Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
4. Financial acumen and experience in managing budgets and financial plans.
5. Passion for the cocktail and hospitality industry, with a deep understanding of market trends.
6. Ambitious, driven with a very strong, hands-on work ethic.

OUR STORY

29,307 days after prohibition ended, restoring sanity and permitting the consumption of alcohol once more, The Bootlegger family opened the doors to our first bar on Gloucester Road in Bristol. Since then, we have continued to celebrate this momentous occasion and journeyed westward to Womanby Street in Cardiff, where we are proudly headquartered. Since establishing our HQ, we have expanded into Exeter, Brighton, Leeds, Richmond and Bath.

Unlike the prohibition days when joy was quashed and all good liquor was banned, we offer customers a place to enjoy themselves without the fear of incarceration or fines. We strive to provide the best nightlife experience in every town and city we operate in, offering our patented Prohibition blend of good stock, good company, and good times.

When it comes to cocktails, The Bootlegger offers over 80 options for you to enjoy, ranging from classic favourites to swanky new creations. The Bootlegger also stocks an equally delightful range of craft beers, ales, and ciders, including local favourites. All of these beverages are complemented by our exciting live music schedule, featuring local talent and DJs spinning contemporary tunes.

Our cocktail bars offer a remarkable experience across multiple locations, each with its own unique appeal. At our Richmond site, we boast a full kitchen that elevates our offerings with a diverse menu crafted by talented chefs. This allows us to provide our customers with an exceptional dining experience alongside our exceptional cocktails.

Furthermore, in Bath, Exeter, Leeds, and Brighton, our ever-popular grazing boards have become a staple, drawing patrons in with their exquisite variety and quality. Each board is thoughtfully curated with a selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, and delightful accompaniments, perfect for sharing and complementing our crafted drinks.

Whether you're savouring a gourmet meal at our Richmond location or indulging in the social and culinary delight of our grazing boards elsewhere, our commitment to quality and creativity ensures a standout experience that captures the heart and palate of every guest.

From sumptuous drinks to live entertainment, The Bootlegger guarantees a roaring good time at all our unique venues.

This is the Bootlegger; The Family, The Movement