General Manager

Summary of Position

We are in search of a highly motivated, results-oriented General Manager to lead our newest concept located in Chicago, responsible for building high-performing teams, protecting culture, and driving best-in-class guest experiences and performance.

The General Manager serves as the operational backbone of the business. The role leads high-volume concepts and owns unit-level growth, drives financial performance, delivers exceptional guest experiences, and is a cultural leader across all outlets.

Key Responsibilities

Operational & Leadership Duties

• Oversee all front-of-house and back-of-house operations to ensure consistent execution of service, food, and beverage standards
• Maintain a thorough understanding of all policies, procedures, standards, specifications, guidelines, and training programs
• Serve as a visible leadership presence during service, supporting team flow, guest experience, and real-time problem resolution
• Set the tone for our hospitality culture by modeling service standards, recognition, and leadership presence
• Ensure every guest feels genuinely welcomed and receives warm, responsive, and memorable hospitality
• Lead service recovery using our standards with professionalism, empathy, and a solutions-oriented mindset
• Partner with culinary and bar leadership to ensure menu execution, quality control, and seamless FOH/BOH collaboration
• Ensure operational readiness across all dayparts, including staffing, prep, setup, and breakdown
• Ensure all facilities and equipment are clean and in excellent working condition through regular inspections, checklists, and preventative maintenance programs
• Maintain a professional, organized, and guest-focused environment across all areas of the restaurant
• Foster a positive, professional, and welcoming culture for team members
• Step in as needed to ensure guest service standards are consistently upheld

Team Development & People Leadership

• Oversee scheduling for management and hourly team members
• Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain top talent across management and hourly teams
• Establish clear expectations, performance standards, and growth pathways for team members
• Lead training initiatives and reinforce service standards, brand values, and operational excellence across all roles
• Lead, coach, and develop the management team, fostering accountability, growth, and hospitality excellence
• Conduct regular performance check-ins and provide timely feedback to support development and accountability

Financial & Business Performance

• Own the financial performance of the restaurant, including sales growth, labor management, cost controls, and profitability
• Oversee daily, weekly, and monthly reporting to CFO and ownership
• Analyze P&L performance and key operating metrics to drive informed decisions and continuous improvement
• Partner with corporate teams on budgeting, forecasting, and performance reporting
• Enforce inventory controls, ordering processes, and loss prevention practices across food, beverage, and supplies
• Drive revenue through strong execution of programming, promotions, events, and private dining strategies
• Ensure full compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to health, safety, sanitation, and employment practices
• Work cross-functionally with ownership, administration, human resources, accounting, marketing, culinary, and beverage leadership

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing high-volume, full-service, first-class restaurants, bars, or cafés
• Strong proficiency in restaurant financials and technology platforms, including Toast, SevenRooms, Tripleseat, OpenTable, and Microsoft Excel
• Proven track record of leading teams, managing P&L performance, and driving operational excellence
• Excellent math and problem-solving skills
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to motivate, coach, and hold teams accountable
• High level of organization, operational discipline, and guest-focused mindset
• Passion for hospitality, food, beverage, music, and design
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
• Ability to manage cash handling and reconciliation in accordance with company policies
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks including reaching, bending, stooping, and lifting
• Stamina to work 50–60 hours per week

Pay & Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and flexible scheduling
• Employee dining discounts across all Episcope locations
• Professional development opportunities with clear pathways for advancement