Restaurant General Manager

Aurora, IL

Salary: $90K - $110K

We are seeking a distinguished and highly experienced General Manager to lead the team at our premier upscale dining establishment. The ideal candidate is a polished, results-driven professional with a proven track record of operational excellence in the high-end restaurant sector. This pivotal role involves complete oversight of all restaurant operations to ensure superior guest experiences, robust financial performance, and the cultivation of a motivated, high-performing team. The General Manager is the ultimate steward of our brand, responsible for upholding the meticulous standards that define our reputation.

Core Responsibilities

Operational Excellence & Guest Experience:

• Direct all daily operations for the front-of-house, ensuring seamless execution and adherence to our exacting service standards.
• Act as the primary host and brand ambassador, actively engaging with guests to ensure satisfaction, build loyalty, and promptly resolve any issues with professionalism and grace.
• Continuously refine service protocols and guest touchpoints to elevate the dining experience and exceed expectations.
• Maintain impeccable standards of cleanliness, presentation, and ambiance throughout the entire restaurant.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Recruit, hire, train, and mentor a team of hospitality professionals, including managers, servers, hosts, and support staff.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment built on respect, accountability, and a shared passion for exceptional service.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and implementing development plans to foster staff growth.
• Manage staff scheduling to optimize labor costs while ensuring optimal service levels for all shifts.

Financial & Business Acumen:

• Assume full P&L responsibility, including budget creation, revenue forecasting, and expense management.
• Analyze financial reports and sales data to identify trends, opportunities for growth, and areas for cost control.
• Implement and manage inventory control systems for food, beverage, and supplies to minimize waste and maximize profitability.
• Collaborate with the culinary team on menu engineering, pricing strategies, and sourcing to enhance both quality and financial returns.

Compliance & Brand Standards:

• Ensure the restaurant operates in full compliance with all local, state, and federal health, safety, and labor regulations.
• Uphold and enforce all company policies, procedures, and brand standards without exception.
• Oversee the maintenance and security of the facility and its assets.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive management experience, with at least 3 years as a General Manager in a reputable, full-service upscale or fine dining restaurant.
• Demonstrated history of strong financial performance with comprehensive P&L management experience. Statistics reflecting revenue growth, cost reduction, or improved profitability in previous roles are highly valued.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and lead a diverse team.
• Deep knowledge of fine dining service standards, wine and spirits, and contemporary culinary trends.
• Proficiency with restaurant management software (POS, reservation systems, inventory management) and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• A solution-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities and composure under pressure.
• Sommelier or advanced beverage certification is a significant asset.
• A degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.

This position offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package. It represents a significant opportunity for a dedicated hospitality leader to make a substantial impact on a leading dining destination.

If interested, please send your resume to debra@geckohospitality.com