General Manager

About After

Located in Chicago’s West Loop, After is a critically acclaimed cocktail bar from Chef Curtis Duffy. Known for high-craft cocktails rooted in precision and boundary-pushing technique, After offers an elevated yet accessible experience in a sleek setting. The bar features seasonal beverages, inventive bar snacks and creative plates, and a laid-back, come-as-you-are energy that encourages great music, genuine connection, and warm, welcoming service.

Semi-private and private event spaces—including the Soundbooth, B‑Side, and Canvas—accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to receptions for up to 100-150 guests.

Role Overview
We’re seeking a dynamic, detail-oriented General Manager to lead daily operations atAfter, ensuring a seamless guest experience and smooth execution of both cocktail service and events. This is a highly visible leadership position with full ownership of service delivery, team culture, and event coordination.

We’re looking for a servant leader—someone who leads by example, puts the team first, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves. This role requires humility, consistency, and a long-term mindset. We’re not looking for show ponies; we’re building a team of workhorses—committed individuals dedicated to growing within the Ever Restaurant Group.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily bar operations, ensuring hospitality excellence that reflects After’s high-craft, low-key philosophy and commitment to guest satisfaction
• Recruit, train, coach, and mentor FOH staff to consistently deliver cocktail-driven guest experiences with warmth, professionalism, and teamwork
• Develop staff schedules that optimize labor efficiency while maintaining excellent service levels, in partnership with beverage and service leadership
• Manage operational costs including labor, inventory, and supplies to meet budget goals without compromising quality
• Serve as the primary on-site leader during daily service and private events, handling guest relations, resolving issues, and ensuring smooth execution from start to finish
• Collaborate closely with culinary and bar teams to integrate offerings during menu transitons, service, and curated events
• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant environment by enforcing health, safety, and sanitation standards according to local regulations and company policies
• Foster a positive team culture through clear communication, ongoing training, and conflict resolution, promoting accountability and shared success
• Monitor guest feedback and operational metrics to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and implement service enhancements
• Support marketing efforts by assisting with special promotions, social media activations, and community engagement initiatives as needed

Ideal Qualifications

• 3+ years of general management experience in a high-volume cocktail bar or concept-driven venue

• Proven success managing private events or overseeing third-party functions

• A polished yet approachable leadership style; confident in fast-paced, guest-centric environments

• Proficiency with POS and reservation platforms (Tock, Open Table, Toast, Triple Seat, etc.), as well as scheduling and HR tools

• Strong operational instincts, including cost management, forecasting, and labor optimization

• A passion for cocktail culture, seasonal ingredients, and storytelling through hospitality

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)

• Performance-based bonus/commission opportunities

• Health insurance, PTO, and dining benefits

• Career growth potential within the Ever Restaurant Group

To Apply
Please submit your resume along with a cover letter that includes:

• Your leadership experience in cocktail-forward or boutique hospitality environments

• Your approach to event execution and guest service excellence

• Why After feels like the right fit for your energy, leadership style, and hospitality philosophy

Cheers,

Ever Restaurant Group