Spotlight piece on David, General Manager at The Foundry Bell
Since joining as General Manager in January, David has quietly transformed the day-to-day rhythm here at The Foundry Bell. With a passion for people and a belief that a happy and well-supported team leads to contented guests, he has built a front-of-house culture rooted in warmth, trust, and genuine connection. For David, looking after the team, supporting their development, championing wellbeing, and helping them feel that they truly belong, is the foundation of everything he does.
In recent months, he’s worked to create a space that feels an integral part of the Wokingham community. A new events calendar brings life to the pub each week, from live music every Saturday night at 8 pm to a brand new monthly quiz night, alongside hosting everything from networking events to milestone celebrations. The garden (arguably the best in Wokingham, with two firepits and covered seating for all-year-round enjoyment) is playing its part too, fast becoming the go-to spot for after-work drinks, casual summer dining, and a standout happy hour every Thursday and Friday.
“The heart of The Foundry Bell is simple. When the team feels like they belong, customers feel it too. I want our customers to feel the excitement that we work hard to create, and to leave feeling happy and content.” David, GM
And, speaking of team, from laidback lunches to our delicious weekday Prix Fixe and family-style Sunday roasts, our team brings genuine care and attention to everything they do. With our Assistant Manager, Emma and Team Leader, Isla, helping to lead the way, they’ve built a dynamic team that’s both fun and focused. Here’s what they had to say about life at The Foundry Bell:
“Since David came on board last year, things have never been better. The atmosphere has completely shifted, and The Foundry Bell now truly feels like a place where everyone is welcome, whether you’re a familiar face or walking through the doors for the first time.
Our new summer menu has the whole team buzzing with excitement, and that energy shines through in every dish and drink we serve. We’re passionate about creating exceptional experiences for our guests, and we’re more committed than ever to being a vibrant hub for our local community. I’m truly excited to be part of this journey and can’t wait to see what the future holds for us all at The Foundry Bell. Come see what all the buzz is about, we’d love to welcome you in!” - Emma, Assistant Manager
“I’ve been a Team Leader at The Foundry Bell for just under a year, with David coming in as General Manager in the last few months, bringing with him some much-needed stability! Looking ahead, we’re working on some exciting events, from drinks tastings to charity fundraisers, looking for every opportunity to bring together the local community. We’ve got something for everyone – including a brand new menu – so now is the perfect time to pop in!” - Ila, Team Leader
In recent months, he’s worked to create a space that feels an integral part of the Wokingham community. A new events calendar brings life to the pub each week, from live music every Saturday night at 8 pm to a brand new monthly quiz night, alongside hosting everything from networking events to milestone celebrations. The garden (arguably the best in Wokingham, with two firepits and covered seating for all-year-round enjoyment) is playing its part too, fast becoming the go-to spot for after-work drinks, casual summer dining, and a standout happy hour every Thursday and Friday.
“The heart of The Foundry Bell is simple. When the team feels like they belong, customers feel it too. I want our customers to feel the excitement that we work hard to create, and to leave feeling happy and content.” David, GM
And, speaking of team, from laidback lunches to our delicious weekday Prix Fixe and family-style Sunday roasts, our team brings genuine care and attention to everything they do. With our Assistant Manager, Emma and Team Leader, Isla, helping to lead the way, they’ve built a dynamic team that’s both fun and focused. Here’s what they had to say about life at The Foundry Bell:
“Since David came on board last year, things have never been better. The atmosphere has completely shifted, and The Foundry Bell now truly feels like a place where everyone is welcome, whether you’re a familiar face or walking through the doors for the first time.
Our new summer menu has the whole team buzzing with excitement, and that energy shines through in every dish and drink we serve. We’re passionate about creating exceptional experiences for our guests, and we’re more committed than ever to being a vibrant hub for our local community. I’m truly excited to be part of this journey and can’t wait to see what the future holds for us all at The Foundry Bell. Come see what all the buzz is about, we’d love to welcome you in!” - Emma, Assistant Manager
“I’ve been a Team Leader at The Foundry Bell for just under a year, with David coming in as General Manager in the last few months, bringing with him some much-needed stability! Looking ahead, we’re working on some exciting events, from drinks tastings to charity fundraisers, looking for every opportunity to bring together the local community. We’ve got something for everyone – including a brand new menu – so now is the perfect time to pop in!” - Ila, Team Leader