Commercial Operations Manager

Description:

Commercial Operations Manager

Location: Based at our New Forest Flagship (Ashurst area)

Company: Solent Pub Company Ltd

Step into an exciting future where Bella’s Gelato and Solent Coffee House come together in perfect harmony — and you’re the one helping us expand across the region!

We’re a dynamic, family-run hospitality business evolving fast: our flagship New Forest country pub, luxury Hunters Retreats, and thriving artisan wholesale brands — irresistible handcrafted Bella’s Gelato and premium small-batch Solent Coffee House coffee.

Looking ahead, we’re planning to open more Solent Coffee House locations, each showcasing our own roasted coffee alongside our premium gelato — creating must-visit spots that blend exceptional brews with artisan ice cream in beautiful settings.

We’re searching for a passionate Commercial Operations Manager — a real closer with hospitality soul — to keep our current operations running at 5-star level while driving explosive growth for our wholesale brands and supporting our ambitious expansion plans.

Here’s a glimpse of the world you’ll help grow and expand:

Our vibrant Bella’s Gelato — handcrafted, colourful flavours ready to win hearts everywhere.

The warm, inviting world of Solent Coffee House — perfect for our future sites.

Our welcoming flagship pub.

The serene luxury Hunters Retreats you’ll oversee (mostly remotely)

And the perfect combo — coffee & gelato together, just like our future Solent Coffee Houses.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Growth – Your Main Focus

• Proactively secure new B2B wholesale accounts for Bella’s Gelato and Solent Coffee House (cafés, restaurants, farm shops, hotels, attractions)
• Hit the road to build relationships, present samples, and close deals
• Represent our brands at events, trade shows, and tastings

Operational Leadership

• Provide senior support to the pub team — ensuring outstanding service, excellent staff retention, and strong P&L performance
• Remotely manage our premium Hunters Retreats — overseeing bookings, guest satisfaction, and coordinating maintenance/cleaning teams

Production, Logistics & Expansion Support

• Coordinate production schedules for gelato and coffee roasting
• Ensure top-tier “Solent Quality” from production to delivery
• Play a key role in supporting the launch of new Solent Coffee House sites

You’ll Be Perfect If You:

• Have proven sales/business development experience (ideally B2B food & beverage/wholesale)
• Love the thrill of winning new business and building partnerships
• Understand high-volume pub operations and remote luxury property management
• Have genuine entrepreneurial drive — you’ll treat this family business as your own and spot opportunities everywhere
• Hold a full UK driving licence (essential for client visits and site support)