General Manager

IHOP is a renowned restaurant brand celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, family-friendly dining experience, and an extensive menu that features a variety of breakfast items, lunch, and dinner entrees. Established with a strong commitment to quality food and excellent customer service, IHOP operates numerous units across the country, each dedicated to delivering memorable dining experiences to guests. The brand is known not only for its signature pancakes but also for its commitment to fostering a supportive and professional work environment for employees at every level. IHOP values its team members and emphasizes ongoing training, safety, and operational excellence to maintain high standards in guest service and restaurant management.

The role of General Manager at IHOP is a pivotal position responsible for leading the overall operation of an assigned restaurant location. This full-time managerial role demands a business-savvy individual with a passion for hospitality and leadership. The General Manager is tasked with developing and maintaining effective working relationships with hourly restaurant staff, corporate and regional employees, and guests to ensure smooth business operations and exceptional customer experiences. Key responsibilities include implementing training programs such as the Craft Training to continuously improve unit performance and guest satisfaction.

Financial acumen is essential as the position involves executing financial goals, local marketing initiatives, guest service objectives, and human resource strategies as defined by IHOP’s standard operating procedures and current operational plans. The General Manager oversees the restaurant floor, engaging regularly with guests and managing guest complaints professionally and promptly. This role requires strict compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, ensuring operational standards are met in food quality, presentation, safety, sanitation, and employee conduct.

Leadership and staff management are at the core of the General Manager’s duties. Recruiting, training, coaching, and retaining employees while maintaining turnover within acceptable limits is vital. The manager handles employee performance appraisals and administers compensation plans. Enforcing company policies related to harassment, discrimination, and diversity forms a critical part of the work environment. Inventory control, supply management, and equipment maintenance are additional areas that require close attention to maintain operational efficiency.

The General Manager also ensures the restaurant adheres to hygiene standards, proper food storage and handling, deep cleaning schedules, and safety programs that include committees and regular meetings. Security measures following company protocols must be enforced to safeguard the premises and assets. Marketing efforts at national and local levels are implemented by managing promotional materials, menus, and family-friendly marketing items.

This role demands strong communication skills to handle reports, paperwork, and personnel records accurately and timely. The General Manager supervises assistant managers, crew chiefs, and hourly employees while ensuring compliance with organizational policies and laws regarding employment practices. A high school diploma or GED with two to four years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. IHOP offers a dynamic workplace with opportunities for professional growth within a supportive and fast-paced environment, making the General Manager position an exciting and impactful career choice for those passionate about the restaurant industry.