Director of Restaurant Operations

LaGuardia International Airport (LGA) is a major airport located in New York City, serving millions of travelers annually. With its strategic location and high passenger traffic, LGA plays a significant role in connecting people domestically and internationally. Managing food and beverage services at such a busy airport requires a dynamic and experienced leadership team dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences while maintaining operational excellence and adherence to strict regulations. SSP America, a leading global operator in airport food and beverage, renowned for elevating airport dining experiences and bringing local flavors to travelers across North America, is hiring for a pivotal leadership role at LGA. SSP America operates restaurants in over 60 airports across the continent, and they focus on creating environments where teamwork, fast-paced action, and a passion for food service come together to support seamless traveler experiences.

The Director of Restaurant Operations position at LaGuardia International Airport offers an exciting opportunity to lead and manage a multi-unit food and beverage portfolio within a complex and fast-paced airport environment. This role is designed for a seasoned, multi-unit leader who possesses the ability to oversee high-volume operations while simultaneously developing strong General Manager talent. The Director will be responsible for maintaining consistent execution of brand standards, food safety, and guest satisfaction across all outlets. With direct responsibility for a minimum of $20 million in annual sales volume, this leadership position demands full profit and loss accountability, keen financial oversight, and strategic business planning skills that ensure sustainable and profitable growth.

Operational leadership in this role includes supporting multiple General Managers, conducting regular operational assessments, and driving corrective actions when necessary. The Director will also be instrumental in forging partnerships with other departments such as Finance, Culinary, HR, and Branding teams to align operational goals with broader company objectives. Additionally, this position requires adherence to regulations set forth by airport authorities and local government, along with internal company policies to maintain a safe and compliant working environment.

People leadership is a critical component of this role, focusing on building, coaching, and developing a strong leadership pipeline. The Director will establish clear performance expectations, accountability, and succession planning initiatives to ensure continuous growth and leadership stability within the operation. The role offers a competitive base salary range between $125,000 and $130,000, complemented by bonus eligibility tied to performance metrics. Candidates who thrive in high-energy, highly structured environments with a passion for food and beverage operations are ideal. This is an opportunity to contribute to one of the largest airport restaurant operators worldwide and drive operational success at a premier airport location.