NEED TO KNOW INFO:
Exciting opportunity in The Climbing Hangar!
Ahead of the launch of our epic new 24,000+ ft Southampton site, we’re looking for a passionate and experienced Deputy General Manager to help lead our brand-new climbing facility. The Climbing Hangar, in a nutshell, is thrilling climbing, great music, and an amazing café to kick back with friends.
With heart-pounding climbs at every grade, we offer indoor climbing for everybody. It doesn't matter who you are or how hard you climb, you'll get the same warm welcome at The Hangar.
While we believe indoor climbing is as much about "play" as it is about "progress", we'll have plenty of toys here for hardcore climbers, including Campus boards, Hangboards; a 50° Kilter Board; 40° Tension Board. There is something for everyone.
Why the Hangar?
Join a team where community, adventure, and a love for climbing are at the core of everything we do. Supported by Verlinvest, a passionate and purpose-led brand championing our ambitious growth plans, we’re taking bold steps to bring the joy of climbing to even more communities.
If you’re ready to inspire bolder living through climbing, we’d love to hear from you!
About the Hangar
The Climbing Hangar started life in a Liverpool warehouse in 2011. Since then, we’ve grown to become a national business with sites across England, Wales, and Scotland. Our mission is simple – to inspire bolder living through indoor climbing.
We bring together epic climbing, fresh coffee and a fun filled community to cities all over the UK. We are passionate about climbing. But more importantly, we’re passionate about the impact that a social, challenging, supportive, progressive and fun activity can have on people’s lives, regardless of ability, age or fitness.
We are obsessed with creating unforgettable experiences for climbers of all levels. As one of the leading climbing groups in the UK indoor climbing industry, we’re dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and fostering a community where adventure thrives. Our climbing facilities are more than just walls – they’re vibrant hubs of energy, creativity, and connection. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we inspire people to reach new heights and discover their inner strength #boldertogether
Job Role
As the Deputy General Manager, you will play a crucial role in collaborating with the General Manager to create a vibrant, customer-focused environment. You will manage day-to-day operations and drive the success of the centre. This is an exciting opportunity to develop a community hub for climbers while ensuring smooth operations and financial sustainability.
Working closely with the General Manager, you will be instrumental in the successful opening of the new site and will be involved in the recruitment process to assemble your ideal team. You will also support the General Manager in implementing our industry-leading customer engagement strategy.
It is essential to understand how to attract and retain loyal climbing customers while delivering exceptional levels of customer service. Additionally, you will need to maximize in-centre sales to meet site KPIs.
In the absence of the General Manager, the Deputy General Manager will serve as the primary point of contact for staff, customers, and business partners. Therefore, you should possess a comprehensive knowledge of the team, customer base, and all operational aspects.
This is a dual role that includes oversight of the Front of House staff, who will also manage the kitchen and other related areas.
Role Responsibilities
Site Launch & Opening – Assist the General Manager in the successful setup of the new site, ensuring all facilities, equipment, and systems are operational before opening.
Training & Onboarding – Support in the recruitment, onboarding and training of staff across all departments to find and foster the best talent that aligns with our company values.
Leadership – Assist the General Manager in overseeing and ensuring the effective running of all site operations. Foster a positive workplace culture that emphasises teamwork, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.
Customer Acquisition/ Engagement – Customer retention is crucial to ensure the growth of memberships, etc and to hit projected KPIs.
Community Engagement – Help to build relationships with local organisations to foster a strong climbing community. Along with staying informed about climbing trends and innovations to keep the centre competitive and relevant.
Financial Duties – Assist the General Manager in developing and managing the site's budget, ensuring financial targets are met.
Customer Focus/Queries – Create a memorable experience for customers and be confident in handling customer queries/complaints, taking food orders and handling transactions.
Administration – Handle weekly administration tasks to keep the site running smoothly.
Health & Safety – Ensure that the site, including the kitchen and café area, adheres to health and safety procedures and professional standards to guarantee the safety of both your team and customers.
Stock Management – Monitor inventory levels and report shortages to the General Manager.
Food Preparation – Prepare and cook a variety of menu items according to established recipes and standards.
Benefits
- Starting salary £31,000 pa
- Friendly Hours – Flexible hours available – a 4-day workweek option!
- Rota in advance (4 weeks) – We understand the importance of a work-life balance.
- Free Climbing for you, +1 – as everyone should get in on the fun!
- Long service recognition – an appreciation of your hard work.
- Employee Referral Scheme – Bag yourself an extra £200*
- Employee Assistance Programme – Access to Headspace for yourself and up to 5 friends/family. Along with an onsite mental health first aider and access to counselling services.
- Training & Development Opportunities – We love helping our team members develop their skills and take the next step in their careers.
- Discounted gear from our retail range: get kitted out for that climb at a great discount.
- Partner discounts from Black Diamond, Scarpa, Unparallel, and Evolv – WOW !!
Ideal Candidate
- Previous management or supervisory experience is essential, ideally within the fast-paced Climbing, Hospitality or Leisure industries
- A keen eye for detail – never compromising on standards
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills – positive first impressions are key!
- People management – able to lead by example & motivate a diverse team of people
- Passion or interest in climbing is highly desirable
- Experience driving a P&L – financial experience would be a bonus!
- Experience in driving a team to hit KPIs – motivating a team to success
How to Apply
If this role sounds like you and you have the passion to deliver and drive a new site and make a mark in the climbing industry, we would love to have you lead our team!
Email [email protected] to send us your CV and Cover Letter, and remember to let us know which locations you would be interested in. We can’t wait to meet you!
*Please be advised that due to the large volume of applications we receive, we have the right to place applications on hold before the advertised closing date.
*All applications require a cover letter to express your personality and your interest in the role. A strong cover letter is your chance to stand out against the rest of the applicants!