Service Director

Tao Group Hospitality offers competitive benefits for all full-time team members such as:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

• 401(k) Retirement Program with Employer Match

• Life and Disability Insurance Plans

• Ancillary Insurance Plans

• Employee Assistance Program

• Fertility & Family Forming Support and Resources

• Pet Insurance

• Employee Discounts

• TAO Savings Marketplace

• Time off and much more!

The Service Director is responsible for the overall leadership, strategy, and execution of all front-of-house operations at Sake No Hana New York. This role oversees service standards, team development, financial performance, and guest experience to ensure exceptional, gracious hospitality aligned with Tao Group Hospitality’s brand standards. The Service Director serves as the primary front-of-house leader, driving operational excellence, cultivating a high-performance culture, and ensuring the restaurant operates efficiently, profitably, and in full compliance with all company and regulatory requirements.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Champion a culture of gracious hospitality by anticipating and accommodating guest needs at the highest level.

• Actively engage with guests in the dining room, building relationships and ensuring memorable experiences.

• Lead by example on the floor during service, maintaining visibility and approachability.

• Address and resolve guest concerns promptly and professionally, elevating complex matters as needed.

• Direct and oversee all daily front-of-house operations to ensure efficiency, profitability, and adherence to brand standards.

• Supervise, coach, and develop all FOH management and team members

• Ensure all opening and closing procedures are executed in accordance with company standards.

• Regulate and oversee all POS functions requiring management approval.

• Ensure proper reconciliation of end-of-shift financials and cash handling procedures.

• Maintain oversight of inventory levels, ordering of operational supplies, and cost controls.

• Ensure replacement or repair of damaged equipment and furnishings in collaboration with Operations.

• Lead recruitment efforts for FOH management and key team members in partnership with Talent Acquisition.

• Conduct interviews, hiring, onboarding, and training of new team members.

• Drive performance management, including job performance reviews, coaching conversations, and progressive discipline when necessary.

• Develop succession planning strategies and growth opportunities for FOH leadership.

• Lead and participate in training sessions, pre-service meetings, and departmental meetings to elevate service standards.

• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and accountable team culture.

• Partner with senior leadership to drive revenue, guest satisfaction, and profitability goals.

• Monitor labor costs through strategic scheduling and productivity management.

• Analyze sales trends, guest feedback, and operational metrics to implement continuous improvement strategies.

• Support execution of marketing initiatives, special events, and VIP experiences.

• Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including Department of Health standards.

• Maintain adherence to Tao Group Hospitality policies and sanitation standards.

• Ensure practical knowledge of all FOH positions and be capable of performing job duties as needed.

• Maintain in-depth knowledge of all food, beverage, and sake menus, including Japanese cuisine concepts and offerings.

• Communicate clearly and concisely with Heart-of-House leadership to ensure seamless service execution.

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of Sake No Hana, Tao Group Hospitality, its partners, and the surrounding hospitality environment.

• Portray a consistently positive, polished, and professional demeanor.

• Serve as an ambassador of the brand within the restaurant and broader hospitality community.

• Assist and/ or complete additional tasks as assigned.

EDUCATION / WORKING KNOWLEDGE:

• Minimum 5+ years of hospitality management experience in a high-volume, upscale or luxury dining environment required.

• Prior experience leading FOH management teams preferred.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team-building skills.

• Proven ability to drive guest satisfaction and financial performance.

• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and proactive mindset.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, POS systems, and restaurant technology platforms.

• Knowledge of Japanese cuisine and sake programs preferred.

SKILLS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT / SCHEDULE:

The work environment characteristics and/or physical demands described here are representative of those a Team Member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions

• Ability to write, read, and verbally communicate

• Must have strong problem-solving skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required

• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

• Must have good positive energy throughout the day

• Must be able to read the computer monitors and print legibly

• Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time

• Must be able to move quickly through work and set the pace in the office

• Must be able to push and lift up to 75 lbs. with or without assistance

• Small to Medium office environment

• Office, Casino, Nightclub, Bar, Lounge, and/or Restaurant working environment

• 5-25% Local Travel (United States)

• Work in an environment that is subject to varying levels of noise, crowds, and smoke, the severity of which depends upon the guest volume

• May work extended hours irregular shifts, evening and/or weekend shifts, and holiday work may be required

• Maintain a professional, neat, and well-groomed appearance adhering to Company standards

• Must be effective as part of a team; ability to interact with internal and external customers, managers, and co-workers in a professional, courteous manner

• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality

• Ability to handle a fast-paced, busy, and somewhat stressful environment