Apolonia, a South Loop dining destination by Chef Stephen Gillanders, is seeking an experienced and passionate General Manager to lead our front-of-house team. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, a commitment to hospitality, and a deep understanding of restaurant operations.
What We’re Looking For:
- Maintains a positive, friendly, courteous disposition and a neat, clean and professional appearance
- Works with the Chef de Cuisine (CDC) in setting the direction of the business in day-to-day operations as well as developing and executing a plan to drive sales, manage costs, and grow the business
- Manages FOH schedule; ensures the FOH is properly staffed and communicates any staffing issues to management
- Handles all FOH staff responsibilities in partnership with senior management team (includes: interviewing, hiring, training and development, employee relations, disciplinary action, documentation, terminations, etc.)
- Works directly with CDC in order to promote a strong and unified leadership dynamic, maintaining communication between FOH and BOH
- Point person for cash for all shifts, including bank deposits, and ensuring that all cash procedures are properly followed
- Conducts weekly meetings with all FOH managers to update them on financials, service, new procedures, and improvements
- Leads pre-shift meetings at the start of every service OR delegates another manager to lead in your absence
- Works with entire leadership team to drive the success of their restaurant; promptly and fully informs management team of concerning problems or unusual matters of significance
- Oversees organization, efficiency and policies pertaining to service in the dining room
- Balances admin responsibilities with service responsibilities
- Creates, enhances, and strengthens guest relationships
- Promotes cooperative effort, a team spirit, and positive morale and company culture among employees
- Resolves complaints from guests in a polite, friendly manner always making sure timely followup as needed
- Ensures the appropriate presentation and ambiance of the entire space (lighting, temperature, bathrooms, cleanliness, and seating arrangements)
- Participates in training about standardized policies (HR, fire, hygiene, health, safety, employee handbook, etc.)
- Helps with duties of other employees (i.e. server, food runner, etc.) when necessary
- Responsible for ensuring that all server check outs and restaurant closing duties are performed on a daily basis to standards
- Has a strong understanding of company background, core values and philosophy
- Adheres to all company safety and sanitation policies and procedures
- Performs other work related duties as assigned
Qualifications (Education, Experience, Skills):
- Previous management experience
- Manager Food Sanitation Certification
- ServSafe Certification
- Ability to handle stress under pressure
- Willingness to maintain a clean, healthy, and safe working environment
- Ability to coordinate multiple activities with attention to detail
- Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Ability to be flexible with job demands and open minded when being asked to complete tasks
- Ability to operate and use all equipment necessary to run the restaurant
- Ability to move or handle equipment throughout the restaurant generally weighing 0-50 pounds
- Ability to work varied hours/days as business dictates
- Ability to stand for up to 8-10 hours a day
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work in a dynamic and creative environment.
- Room for growth and advancement within the company.
- Be part of a team that values quality, creativity, and passion.
T
o be considered, please attach your resume and a short cover letter outlining why you are interested in working at Apolonia. 
