General Manager | Cincinnati
About the Concept
A contemporary Japanese restaurant is preparing to open in Cincinnati, inspired by the craftsmanship, flavors, and modern dining culture of Japan. Backed by a growing hospitality group with multiple concepts across the United States, this opening is focused on delivering thoughtful cuisine, warm hospitality, and a high-quality guest experience.
This is an opportunity to be part of a leadership team shaping an opening from the ground up, with a strong emphasis on culture, standards, and long-term growth.
Position Summary
The General Manager will lead all front-of-house operations while driving overall restaurant performance. This role is responsible for building and developing the team, establishing operational systems, and delivering a consistently exceptional guest experience.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a strong sense of hospitality, operational discipline, and the ability to set the tone for a high-performing, service-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Culture
- Build, lead, and develop a high-performing front-of-house team
- Set clear expectations and foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and hospitality
- Serve as a visible, hands-on leader during service
Operations
- Oversee all daily restaurant operations, ensuring seamless execution across service and flow
- Partner with culinary leadership to maintain alignment between FOH and BOH
- Establish and uphold service standards, cleanliness, and overall presentation
Financial Performance
- Drive revenue while maintaining disciplined cost control across labor, food, and beverage
- Oversee scheduling, forecasting, and labor management
- Monitor performance metrics and implement strategies for continuous improvement
Guest Experience
- Ensure a consistently elevated and memorable guest experience
- Handle guest feedback and service recovery with professionalism and urgency
- Build a hospitality-driven culture across all touchpoints
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation standards
- Maintain compliance with company policies and local/state regulations
Team Development
- Lead hiring, onboarding, and training initiatives
- Provide ongoing coaching, performance management, and career development
- Build a strong pipeline of future leaders within the team
Additional Responsibilities
- Oversee inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships
- Support marketing and local store-level initiatives
- Ensure bar operations are compliant and operating efficiently
Qualifications
- 5+ years of management experience in a high-volume restaurant environment
- Opening experience strongly preferred
- Strong background in front-of-house operations and service leadership
- Financial acumen with experience managing labor, costs, and performance metrics
- Familiarity with POS systems (Aloha, Micros, or similar)
- ServSafe certification (or ability to obtain)
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
What They’re Looking For
- Hands-on, “player-coach” leadership style
- Polished, service-driven approach with strong attention to detail
- Ability to build systems and structure in an opening environment
- Strong communicator with a team-first mindset
- Passion for hospitality and guest experience
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Employee dining discounts
- Relocation assistance (if applicable)