The HR Manager in a restaurant, club, or lounge is responsible for building and maintaining a strong, compliant, and service-driven workforce. This role ensures the business attracts the right people, supports them with clear policies and training, and manages employment practices in a way that protects the brand, the team, and the guest experience. In an environment where pace, standards, and people performance directly affect revenue and reputation, the HR Manager plays a central role in keeping operations stable, compliant, and well supported.
Position Overview
- Where the role sits:
The HR Manager sits within the HR, Training & Compliance function and works closely with Operations, General Management, Department Heads, and Finance. In many venues, this role is part of the leadership team and acts as the main link between management and staff on people matters.
- Reporting line:
The role typically reports to the General Manager, Director of Operations, or Owner/Managing Director, depending on the structure and size of the venue group.
- Key areas of responsibility:
- Recruitment, onboarding, and retention of hourly and salaried team members
- Employee relations, disciplinary processes, grievances, and conflict resolution
- Compliance with labour law, licensing-related staffing requirements, and internal HR policies
- Management of contracts, personnel files, payroll inputs, leave records, and working time controls
- Supporting training coordination, induction standards, and performance development
- Assisting with workforce planning, succession, and staffing structures across departments
- Promoting a positive workplace culture aligned with service standards and brand values
- Monitoring risk areas such as attendance, turnover, absence, and documentation gaps
- What success looks like:
The best HR Managers are highly organised, discreet, fair, and calm under pressure. They combine strong knowledge of employment practice with a practical understanding of hospitality’s fast-moving environment. They communicate confidently at all levels, handle sensitive matters professionally, and balance compliance with a people-first approach. Successful HR Managers are proactive, detail-oriented, and able to influence managers to lead effectively, maintain standards, and build a strong team culture.