General Manager | Modern Italian | Chicago

Job Description

Job Description

General Manager – Newly Opened Upscale Italian Restaurant

A newly opened upscale Italian restaurant is seeking a talented General Manager to lead the team. The concept combines classic Italian flavors, bold red-sauce staples, and timeless cocktails with a warm, welcoming atmosphere designed for both neighborhood regulars and destination diners.

We are looking for a leader who shares a passion for heartfelt hospitality, values collaboration, and thrives in creating a team environment where guests and employees alike feel appreciated and inspired.

Key Responsibilities

Employee Relations

• Lead the interview, hiring, and onboarding process with support from HR.
• Drive service standards and manage training in collaboration with Learning & Development.
• Coach and counsel employees as needed in partnership with HR.
• Build strong rapport between FOH and BOH to encourage teamwork.
• Create and post weekly staff schedules.
• Foster a positive, stress-free environment for team members.
• Maintain recognition and incentive programs to support morale.
• Conduct timely performance reviews.

Operations

• Oversee all aspects of restaurant and bar operations.
• Manage inventories and cost controls.
• Analyze sales figures and set, monitor, and manage budgets.
• Ensure outstanding guest service by anticipating needs and personalizing experiences.
• Support daily operations across all departments as needed.
• Conduct daily pre-shift and post-shift meetings.
• Manage labor costs within budget.
• Develop and implement operational improvements and efficient processes.
• Maintain vendor relationships and oversee ordering and receiving.
• Ensure compliance with food quality, safety, and cleanliness standards.
• Respond promptly and courteously to guest requests and concerns.
• Train, monitor, and maintain POS systems.
• Partner with sales and marketing leadership to support guest outreach, marketing, and private event initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Hospitality, or equivalent experience.
• 5–8 years of progressive restaurant management experience.
• 5+ years of supervisory experience required.
• Prior opening experience preferred.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in P&L management and budgeting.
• Proficiency with POS and restaurant management software (Toast, R365, Paylocity preferred).
• Solid computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, Microsoft Office).
• Strong leadership and training experience.
• Valid food sanitation management and alcohol awareness certifications (or ability to obtain).
• Availability to work evenings — this is a dinner-only concept.

Benefits

• Performance-based annual and quarterly bonus potential
• 401K with company match
• Monthly dining allowance
• Monthly cell phone reimbursement
• Paid vacation, sick time, and floating holidays
• Internal dining discounts
• Paid parental leave (2 weeks)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-paid long-term disability, life insurance, and AD&D
• Voluntary short-term disability, critical illness, and accident insurance