Managing Director – Independent Restaurant Group

Locally acclaimed, independent Los Angeles restaurant group is seeking a dynamic and hands-on Managing Director to join the team! This role will assume primary operational responsibility for the group’s main full-service restaurant, with a focus on manager development, recruitment, streamlining and standardizing systems/procedures, and elevating food, beverage and service standards. The ideal candidate is extremely organized, detail oriented, and has a strong background in systems and structure. Looking for someone with an entrepreneurial, self-starter attitude who is comfortable working with staff to hold them accountable, allowing for consistency and growth across the company, in addition to united team morale.

A collaborative, boots-on-the-ground leadership style, passion for hospitality, and proven experience fostering a strong culture of excellence are all critical to this role. This person must be able to maintain a strong presence in the restaurant on a regular basis, and consistently oversee the flow of service, engage with guests, and lead the team by example on the floor. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented operator with great judgement, instincts, and a strong sense of culture to join a respected local group with future growth potential!

Responsibilities Include:

• Oversee and positively impact all areas of the business including: sales, costs, employee retention, guest service and satisfaction, food quality, cleanliness and sanitation
• Improve upon company standards and service levels to increase sales and minimize costs, including food, beverage, supply, utility and labor costs
• Continuously strive to develop the team and staff by providing ongoing feedback, establishing performance expectations and conducting regular supervisory performance reviews
• 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
• Coach, evaluate, develop, and motivate staff by setting expectations, recognizing achievements, and aligning performance goals with company goals
• Ensure that all policies, forms and procedures are consistently and properly executed by all staff members
• Take initiative and help to build business
• Work to standardize any manuals or forms that can better help streamline operations and improve efficiency
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as necessary to achieve operational goals
• Lead and mentor restaurant managers and hourly staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Maintain a strong presence in the restaurant on a regular basis and on the floor during service
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards in accordance with local regulations and company policies
• Collaborate with the culinary team to maintain high-quality food and beverage offerings and exceptional guest experiences
• Work closely with ownership 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
• Dedicated to guest service, experience, and employee retention
• Understand and comply with CA labor laws

Candidate Requirements:

• 5-6+ years of progressive, upscale, full-service restaurant management experience with at least 2-3 years of experience in a senior leadership role (i.e. General Manager, Executive General Manager, Regional or Area Director/Manager, Director of Operations, Multi-Unit General Manager, Service Director, Food & Beverage Director, or comparable role)
• Multi-unit experience is a plus, but not absolutely required
• Diverse restaurant experience is highly preferred
• Proven track record in leading and motivating a team with a passion for training and staff development
• Strategic background with a passion for hospitality and the ability to oversee multiple direct reports
• 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
• Meticulous attention to detail and very systems-oriented
• Willingness to be very hands on and to learn and grow
• Energetic, positive, reliable and dependable
• 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 the team onsite in the restaurant
• 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/schedule necessary to manage and operate the concept effectively during peak seasons
• Requires long stretches of standing, occasional carrying, pushing or pulling of items up to 50 lbs in weight
• Food safety certification

Compensation Package Includes:

• Base Salary in the $100-110k range DOE
• Bonus Potential
• 50% Covered Health Benefits
• Parking
• R&D Allowance
• PTO Plan