Stonegate Group
General Manager
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
General Manager - Blacksmiths Arms, St Albans
Salary: Up to £45,000 p.a.
Accommodation: Large, very well appointed 3-bedroom accommodation
About Us
Stonegate Group is the UK’s largest operator of pubs, bars, and late-night venues, including Slug & Lettuce, Be At One, and Popworld. We’re proud of our diverse portfolio and deeply committed to creating an inclusive culture that embraces individuality in all its forms—including neurodiversity. By fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and supported, we reflect the vibrant communities we serve and empower our people to thrive.
The Opportunity
If you’re ready to take on a “banger of a business” in one of Hertfordshire’s most sought-after locations, this could be the perfect next move.
The Blacksmiths Arms sits at the heart of St Albans, a thriving cathedral city known for its affluent customer base, strong hospitality scene, and steady flow of visitors from London and beyond. With a lively mix of independent venues and established operators nearby, it’s a competitive market full of opportunity for the right leader.
This well-loved single-bar pub has built a reputation for live sport, live music, and a buzzing weekend atmosphere, attracting a loyal local following alongside a diverse mix of guests throughout the week. At its core, this is a pub built on great guest experiences, from the energy of matchday crowds and live entertainment to relaxed daytime visits and social gatherings.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
One of its biggest assets is the expansive beer garden, offering huge scope to create memorable outdoor moments, from summer events and private celebrations to casual drinks that turn into long stays. With a versatile pod for private hire, there’s real potential to elevate the experience even further and give guests more reasons to return.
About You
This role is suited to a commercially driven General Manager who understands that great performance starts with great experiences. Someone who can:
- Create a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere, where every guest feels valued and every visit is worth repeating.
- Set the tone for service excellence and lead from the front.
- Empower their team to deliver consistently high standards, whether it’s a busy Saturday night, a key sporting event, or a midweek catch-up.
With full ownership of the pub’s direction, this is your chance to:
- Shape business performance and the guest experience alike.
- Build on strong foundations to create something special.
- Make a lasting impact at The Blacksmiths Arms.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Requirements:
- Must hold a valid Personal Licence to apply.
What Makes Stonegate a Great Place to Work?
At Stonegate, we believe that when you feel your best, you do your best. Our benefits are designed to support your health, happiness, and overall wellbeing, both in and out of work:
Core Benefits:
- Bonus Scheme
- Discounted Private Medical Insurance via Vitality
- Exclusive Dental Insurance discounts
- MiXR Reward Card: 25% off food, drinks & VIP entry across our venues
- Early pay access via Stream
- Stonegate Xtra portal: Extensive high-street discounts
- Discounted David Lloyd gym membership
- Personal car leasing discounts
- Up to £1000 “Refer a Friend” incentive
- Discounted access at Stonegate Hotels
Career & Development:
- Award-winning Learning & Development programmes to drive your career growth
Support for Disabilities:
If you have a disability as outlined by the Equality Act 2010 and require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact [philip.white@stonegategroup.co.uk] in advance. We’ll arrange all necessary support, aids, or adaptations to assist you.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills