A well-known NYC hospitality management group seeks an experienced, hands-on leader to fill the role of director of restaurants. This role involves direct oversight and accountability across three restaurant outlets within a bustling hotel, balancing administrative responsibilities with an active, visible presence during service. This position requires a proactive, strategic leader who prioritizes high standards in guest service, cost control, and team development.

Core Responsibilities:

Floor Presence & Administrative Oversight:

• Maintain a strong floor presence during all service periods, completing administrative duties in off-hours to ensure effective operation.
• Hold full accountability for managing floor operations, directly overseeing General Managers, Service Directors, and Restaurant Managers.
• Delegate scheduling and payroll responsibilities to outlet leaders, ensuring timely and efficient administrative processes aligned with service periods.

Cost Control & Financial Accountability:

• Demonstrate expertise in real-time cost control, actively managing labor and product costs to meet budgeted targets.
• Monitor and guide each outlet to achieve revenue and check average goals, providing hands-on support to managers as needed.

Management & Team Development:

• Conduct regular weekly meetings with each outlet’s management team, emphasizing accountability, KPIs, and budget alignment.
• Invest time mentoring the management team to foster a unified, high-performance culture that positively impacts the kitchen and floor staff.
• Ensure proactive, consistent documentation and follow-up with HR on any staff-related issues, maintaining a high standard for workplace conduct and accountability.

Operational Best Practices:

• Audit all service periods regularly, maintaining a flexible, semi-stable schedule to ensure broad oversight.
• Proactively manage staff coverage, especially during high-demand periods, to avoid understaffing; approve vacation requests only when adequate coverage is confirmed.
• Foster a collaborative environment, guiding managers to self-initiate improvements while ensuring that major policy changes receive proper oversight and approval.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong background in hospitality management with direct experience overseeing multiple restaurant outlets.
• Proven expertise in cost management, scheduling, and operational efficiency.
• A strategic and proactive communicator who values team development and mentorship.
• Self-starter with a hands-on approach and a keen understanding of when to seek approval or collaboration.

This role is ideal for a proactive, experienced leader who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences through skilled, engaged teams