Director of Operations – Acclaimed Fine Dining Group

Highly acclaimed chef-driven group is seeking a Director of Operations to help oversee their diverse collection of restaurants. The ideal candidate comes from a high-level service pedigree in acclaimed restaurants, with prior Michelin experience highly preferred. This person should have a balance of chef driven/quality product experience and a strong foundation in systems and structure, and possess the ability to remain hands on with the team in all processes while supporting bigger picture operational strategy.

The Director of Ops will assume responsibility for the support of all restaurant operations including manager development, recruitment, consistent Michelin-caliber standards of food, beverage and service, systems, and overall team morale – while ensuring that all activities are consistent with each concept’s brand identity and supportive of overall company culture. Candidates must be highly service oriented and enjoy being on the floor engaging with guests, setting an example for staff during service. A collaborative mindset, keen attention to detail, high level of organization, and ability to communicate effectively with teams and leadership are all critical to this role. Amazing opportunity for refined, fine dining leader to work with a highly accoladed team!

Responsibilities Include:

• Work as a resource for all chefs, top-level management, and partners in the group. Nurture those relationships and help support their vision and create standardized procedures
• Work to standardize any manuals or forms that can better help streamline operations through the restaurants
• Monitor restaurant performance to identify emerging trends and areas of opportunity, including new technology or service models
• Taking ownership of the business to increase sales and profitability
• Encourage and build mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members
• Remain committed to guest service, experience, retention of regulars, and fostering new guest relationships
• Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and procedures across all restaurants to ensure consistency and efficiency
• Oversee financial performance, including budgeting, cost control, and revenue optimization.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as necessary to achieve operational goals
• Lead and mentor all top-level restaurant managers and staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Maintain a presence in each of the restaurants on a regular basis
• Prepares reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data and trends
• Problem-solve and work on site to ensure any issues are resolved and handled appropriately
• Maintain oversight of POS and reservation systems, guest communications, and service execution standards
• Collaborate with culinary teams to maintain Michelin-caliber food and beverage offerings and exceptional guest experiences
• Work closely with the executive team to develop and execute strategies that drive profitability, enhance guest satisfaction, and maintain high standards of quality
• Foster strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and other external partners to ensure seamless operations and cost-effective procurement
• Stay updated on industry trends, competition, and customer preferences to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement
• Fully understand and comply with all federal, state, county and municipal regulations that pertain to health, safety and labor requirements

Candidate Requirements:

• 5-7+ years of progressive, full-service, upscale or fine-dining restaurant management experience with at least 2-3 years of experience in a multi-unit role (Regional or Area Director, Director of Operations, Multi-Unit General Manager (GM), Director of Restaurants, Director of Hospitality, or comparable role)
• High-service pedigree is required (i.e. 1, 2, or 3-star Michelin, Forbes, James Beard recognized, or comparable fine dining restaurant or luxury hotel experience)
• The ideal person will be in touch with the fine dining scene and excited to continue to grow and change with the times
• Diverse restaurant experience preferably in respected, chef-driven restaurant concepts
• Strategic background with a passion for hospitality and the ability to oversee multiple direct reports
• Deep passion for high-caliber food, beverage, and guest service
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate, train, and inspire a diverse workforce
• Excellent financial acumen and experience with budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management
• Ability to thrive in a hands-on, high-touch service environment
• Team player mentality with a hands-on, lead by example style of leadership
• Process driven and able to implement operating procedures that will continue to maximize efficiency
• Experience in dealing with high end/VIP clientele
• Outstanding problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Desire and willingness to work side by side with teams in the restaurants on a regular basis
• Knowledge of industry regulations, health and safety standards, and compliance requirements
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Must be able to work flexible hours necessary to manage and operate the restaurants effectively

Compensation Package Includes:

• Base Salary in the $140-150k range DOE
• Future Bonus Potential
• Medical Benefits
• PTO Plan