Assistant Manager - Upscale Casual Dining Concept

Confidential Search conducted by FTK Hospitality LLC

About Our Client

Our client is a nationally recognized upscale casual dining and retail brand known for their distinctive lifestyle concept and exceptional guest experiences. With locations across the United States, they've built a reputation for quality food and beverage programs, sophisticated service standards, and a vibrant company culture that emphasizes authentic hospitality and career development.

This is a solid, growing company with consistent expansion throughout the USA and a proven track record of promoting from within.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an Assistant Manager for their full-service bar and restaurant concept. This role offers an excellent quality of life with no late nights – a rare find in restaurant management!

Compensation & Schedule:

• Hourly position with competitive pay
• 50-hour work week with most weeks including overtime pay
• No late-night closings – exceptional work-life balance for restaurant management
• Comprehensive benefits package

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a well-established brand that invests heavily in their people and promotes from within. You'll work alongside an experienced management team in a high-volume, upscale environment where attention to detail and genuine guest connections are paramount.

Key Responsibilities

Team Development & Leadership

• Partner with the General Manager to recruit, hire, and develop a high-performing team
• Create a learning and nurturing environment that promotes sales success and internal career growth
• Effectively orient new employees, set clear performance expectations, and provide constructive coaching
• Facilitate company training programs and monitor performance to ensure skill transfer
• Practice proactive performance management in partnership with senior leadership
• Assist employees with career development strategies to improve retention and build bench strength

Operations Excellence

• Ensure consistent execution of company policies, procedures, and hospitality standards
• Manage individual location expenses ensuring budgetary compliance
• Develop and streamline bar and restaurant processes in partnership with the General Manager
• Maintain complete knowledge and enforcement of all food and beverage menus – ingredients, preparation methods, and presentation
• Practice proper cash handling and point-of-sale system operations
• Ensure compliance with food handling, safety, and sanitation guidelines

Brand Standards

• Communicate the company's lifestyle brand through exceptional visual and experiential execution
• Ensure employee appearance appropriately reflects brand image standards
• Manage upkeep of kitchen, bar, and restaurant exterior
• Cultivate authentic relationships with guests and within the community
• Demonstrate company core values in all business decisions and actions

Qualifications

Required:

• High School diploma or GED
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Minimum 3 years of Food and Beverage experience with leadership experience preferred
• Current food handler's card and alcohol service certification as required by local law
• Ability to work varied schedules including some nights, weekends, and holidays
• Basic math skills and computer proficiency (Microsoft Office)

Preferred:

• Familiarity with OpenTable reservation systems
• Upscale casual or fine dining experience
• Multi-unit or high-volume restaurant background

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds frequently
• Bending/stooping/kneeling required frequently
• Routine standing for duration of shift (up to 8 hours)
• Occasional travel for training and support at other locations

Why This Role Stands Out

✓ Work-Life Balance – No late-night closings
✓ Predictable Schedule – 50-hour weeks with OT compensation
✓ Hourly + Overtime – Transparent compensation structure
✓ Growing Company – Expansion opportunities nationwide
✓ Career Development – Strong internal promotion culture
✓ Upscale Environment – Premium brand with sophisticated operations

About FTK Hospitality

FTK Hospitality is a boutique hospitality recruitment and consulting firm serving restaurant, hotel, and retail brands across the United States. We specialize in executive search and talent acquisition for the hospitality industry.