Job Description

About the Concept

A contemporary Japanese restaurant is preparing to open in Cincinnati, inspired by the craftsmanship, flavors, and modern dining culture of Japan. Backed by a growing hospitality group with multiple concepts across the United States, this opening is focused on delivering thoughtful cuisine, warm hospitality, and a high-quality guest experience.

This is an opportunity to be part of a leadership team shaping an opening from the ground up, with a strong emphasis on culture, standards, and long-term growth.

Position Summary

The General Manager will lead all front-of-house operations while driving overall restaurant performance. This role is responsible for building and developing the team, establishing operational systems, and delivering a consistently exceptional guest experience.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a strong sense of hospitality, operational discipline, and the ability to set the tone for a high-performing, service-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Culture

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing front-of-house team
• Set clear expectations and foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and hospitality
• Serve as a visible, hands-on leader during service

Operations

• Oversee all daily restaurant operations, ensuring seamless execution across service and flow
• Partner with culinary leadership to maintain alignment between FOH and BOH
• Establish and uphold service standards, cleanliness, and overall presentation

Financial Performance

• Drive revenue while maintaining disciplined cost control across labor, food, and beverage
• Oversee scheduling, forecasting, and labor management
• Monitor performance metrics and implement strategies for continuous improvement

Guest Experience

• Ensure a consistently elevated and memorable guest experience
• Handle guest feedback and service recovery with professionalism and urgency
• Build a hospitality-driven culture across all touchpoints

Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation standards
• Maintain compliance with company policies and local/state regulations

Team Development

• Lead hiring, onboarding, and training initiatives
• Provide ongoing coaching, performance management, and career development
• Build a strong pipeline of future leaders within the team

Additional Responsibilities

• Oversee inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships
• Support marketing and local store-level initiatives
• Ensure bar operations are compliant and operating efficiently

Qualifications

• 5+ years of management experience in a high-volume restaurant environment
• Opening experience strongly preferred
• Strong background in front-of-house operations and service leadership
• Financial acumen with experience managing labor, costs, and performance metrics
• Familiarity with POS systems (Aloha, Micros, or similar)
• ServSafe certification (or ability to obtain)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

What They’re Looking For

• Hands-on, “player-coach” leadership style
• Polished, service-driven approach with strong attention to detail
• Ability to build systems and structure in an opening environment
• Strong communicator with a team-first mindset
• Passion for hospitality and guest experience

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee dining discounts
• Relocation assistance (if applicable)

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