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, to name a few. 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 with friends. 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. You’ll set the tone for service, lead from the front and empower your 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 an opportunity to shape not just the business performance but how it feels to walk through the doors. With strong foundations already in place, there’s real scope to build something special. If you’re an ambitious, results-focused leader who takes pride in delivering standout guest experiences, this is a chance to make a lasting impact at The Blacksmiths Arms.
Please Note: To be eligible to apply, you MUST hold a valid Personal Licence.
What makes Stonegate a great place to work?
At Stonegate, we believe that when you feel your best, you do your best. That’s why we’re committed to supporting the health, happiness, and overall wellbeing of every team member. From lifestyle perks and flexible support to mental health resources, our benefits are designed to help you thrive, both in and out of work.
If you have a disability as outlined by the Equality Act 2010 and require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process, please let us know in advance so that any support, aids or adaptations can be put in place to assist you. Please contact philip.white@stonegategroup.co.uk
St Albans, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
AL1 3HG