A well-established and highly respected passenger ferry and cruise operator based in Hyannis, Massachusetts, is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Food and Beverage to lead and elevate all food and beverage operations across its fleet and related hospitality outlets. Serving thousands of guests throughout the busy New England travel season, the organization prides itself on delivering memorable guest experiences that combine efficiency, hospitality, and quality service on and off the water.

This leadership position will play a critical role in shaping the overall guest experience by overseeing the strategy, execution, and performance of all food and beverage programs. The Director of Food and Beverage will provide hands-on leadership to culinary and service teams while developing innovative menus, beverage programs, and service standards designed specifically for a fast-paced marine hospitality environment. Success in this role requires a strong operational leader who understands high-volume hospitality, thrives in a dynamic seasonal business, and is passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences while driving strong financial performance. Ideal candidates will deliver superior food and beverage knowledge, strong financial acumen, and extraordinary leadership abilities.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead all food and beverage operations across vessels and related hospitality outlets, both on land and sea.
• Establish and maintain exceptional service standards that create memorable guest experiences
• Ensure consistency in food quality, beverage presentation, and service delivery
• Oversee daily operational execution during peak seasonal travel periods
• Continuously evaluate operations and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and guest satisfaction

Team Leadership and Development

• Recruit, train, and mentor food and beverage management and service teams
• Create a culture built on hospitality, teamwork, accountability, and professionalism
• Develop leadership within the team through training and coaching
• Ensure strong employee engagement and retention during both peak and shoulder seasons

Financial Management

• Develop and manage annual food and beverage budgets
• Monitor financial performance, including revenue, food cost, beverage cost, and labor
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability through menu design, pricing strategies, and operational efficiencies
• Partner with senior leadership to achieve revenue and cost control goals

Culinary and Beverage Program Development

• Collaborate with culinary teams to develop menus designed for onboard service and guest convenience
• Enhance beverage offerings, including beer, wine, cocktails, and specialty drinks
• Introduce seasonal offerings and creative guest experiences
• Stay current with industry trends and guest preferences in food and beverage

Compliance and Quality Standards

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations
• Maintain high standards for food safety and product quality
• Oversee purchasing, inventory management, and vendor relationships
• Implement best practices to maintain operational consistency and safety

Qualifications

• Seven or more years of progressive leadership experience in food and beverage operations
• Experience in high-volume hospitality environments such as cruise lines, resorts, hotels, casinos, stadiums, or large restaurant groups
• Demonstrated success managing multi-outlet or multi-unit food and beverage operations
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost management
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced seasonal hospitality environment
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and beverage programs
• This role requires an on-site leadership presence across vessels and related hospitality facilities.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay + bonuses
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• AD&D coverage
• 401K (Profit-sharing program)
• FSA
• Pet insurance
• PTO + holiday PTO