Job Title: General Manager

Company: Sawmills
Location: Bristol (Hybrid/Remote with regular Bristol-based attendance required)
Reports to: Directors
Hours: Full Time
Rate: £38,000–£45,000 per annum (depending on experience)

About Sawmills

Sawmills is a new and rapidly growing cultural venue in Bristol, operating from a unique industrial space that has quickly become recognised for its cutting-edge music programming, distinctive atmosphere, and diverse range of events.

From live music and club nights to cultural events, private hires, and creative projects, Sawmills has established itself as one of the city’s most exciting new venues.

We are now seeking an experienced General Manager to lead the venue operation, support its continued growth, and help shape the next chapter of Sawmills’ journey.

The Role

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The General Manager will take overall responsibility for the successful operation of Sawmills, ensuring the venue delivers exceptional events, outstanding customer experiences, and strong operational performance.

Working closely with the Directors, you will oversee all areas of venue management including operations, staffing, commercial performance, compliance, and event delivery.

You will lead an established team including a dedicated Bar Manager, regular freelance Event Managers, ticketing staff, locker operators, bar teams, and external contractors.

This is a senior leadership role for someone who understands independent venues, live music, hospitality, and the unique demands of running a creative cultural space.

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Key Responsibilities

Lead the day-to-day operation of Sawmills across events and non-event days.

Manage and support the venue team, including the Bar Manager and freelance event staff.

Develop strong operational systems, procedures, and standards.

Oversee event delivery in collaboration with promoters, artists, production teams, and suppliers.

Support commercial performance through effective venue operations, bar oversight, hires, and partnerships.

Maintain responsibility for licensing, health & safety, and compliance.

Build a positive, professional, and inclusive team culture.

Help develop the future vision and reputation of Sawmills.

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About you

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You will be an experienced venue or operations professional with a background in live music, events, hospitality, or cultural spaces

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You will have:

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Proven experience leading teams in a fast-paced environment.

Strong operational and organisational skills.

Commercial awareness and experience managing venue performance.

The ability to make decisions, solve problems, and lead confidently under pressure.

A genuine passion for music, culture, and independent venues.

Experience with licensing, bar operations, and multi-use event spaces is highly desirable.

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What We Offer

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This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of one of Bristol’s most exciting emerging venues and play a key role in shaping its future.

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You will have significant responsibility, autonomy, and influence within a creative environment at the heart of Bristol’s music and cultural community.

Sawmills is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

Please note: AI-Generated applications will be refused, we want to see the real you!

>>> Click on Apply Now to be taken to the application page