Restaurant & Venue Manager

Lead the experience at one of Tauranga’s most distinctive hospitality destinations.

We’re looking for a passionate, professional and commercially minded Restaurant & Venue Manager to lead our talented international Front of House team. Working alongside Chef Ryan Allen and the wider management team, you’ll take charge of restaurant operations while providing oversight and support across the hotel and function spaces.

This is a hands-on role for an experienced hospitality leader who brings energy to the floor, takes accountability and shares our passion for exceptional food, local and Old World wines, and genuine hospitality.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the restaurant’s day-to-day operations, maintaining high standards across food, beverage, service and presentation.
• Coach and develop the Front of House team, creating a positive, capable and accountable culture.
• Manage rosters, staffing and labour costs in line with business needs and agreed budgets.
• Collaborate with the kitchen leadership team to ensure smooth service and a memorable guest experience.
• Monitor financial and operational performance, identifying opportunities to increase revenue, efficiency and profitability.
• Provide operational oversight across the boutique hotel and functions, ensuring effective coordination, compliance and guest satisfaction.
• Report to the Group General Manager, resolving operational challenges and contributing to the group’s wider commercial objectives.

Other duties may be assigned as required.

To be successful, you will bring:

·         At least three years’ experience in a restaurant, venue or senior hospitality management role.

·         Strong hands-on food and beverage knowledge, including food and wine pairing.

·         Confident leadership skills and experience in recruitment, training, rostering and performance management.

·         Commercial awareness across labour, budgets, inventory and venue performance.

·         Excellent organisation and communication skills, with a calm and solutions-focused approach.

·         A genuine passion for wine and the ability to build strong relationships with guests, suppliers, agents and wineries.

·         Strong written and verbal English.

·         Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays.

·         Ideally, a WSET Level 2 Award in Wines or an equivalent qualification.

What we offer

• A permanent, full-time position of 40+ hours per week.
• An hourly rate of $35, depending on experience and qualifications.
• A thorough induction and ongoing training.
• Excellent staff discounts across our venues.
• Investment in your development through industry courses, management programmes, in-house coaching and mentoring.
• The opportunity to grow within an established and innovative hospitality group.

Clarence is part of Alpino, Picnicka and Stassano Hospitality, a group dedicated to delivering outstanding dining experiences across the Bay of Plenty. You’ll be valued for your expertise, supported in your development and trusted to help shape the experience of every guest who walks through our doors.

Ready to make your mark at Clarence? Apply now.