General Manager

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) is a renowned casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1985 by former federal prosecutors Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax, who combined their passion for food and fresh ingredients to revolutionize the pizza industry. CPK is famously known for its innovative, hearth-baked pizzas like The Original BBQ Chicken, California Club, and Thai Chicken, crafted in an open, lively kitchen. Over the decades, CPK has secured its place as a culinary innovator, bringing California creativity and flair to every dish and offering a welcoming atmosphere for guests and employees alike. As a company, California Pizza Kitchen emphasizes a strong culture grounded in its ROCKS philosophy—Respect, Opportunity, Communication, Kindness, and Service. CPK is deeply committed to moving people forward by fostering an inclusive workplace that encourages every team member to express their passion, boldness, and unique talents.

The role of a Front of House (FOH) Manager at California Pizza Kitchen demands a high level of dedication to delivering phenomenal guest experiences while embracing leadership responsibilities that promote a people-first culture. This management position focuses on inspiring and developing staff to execute exceptional hospitality and culinary practices, driving business growth through improved sales, profitability, and guest counts. The FOH Manager plays a pivotal role in managing daily restaurant operations, including overseeing the profit and loss (P&L) requirements by forecasting and adjusting labor, enforcing portion controls, preparing budgets, and analyzing financial variances. Effective communication is essential in this role, requiring engagement with team members, guests, suppliers, and senior management to ensure smooth operations and maintain CPK’s reputation for excellence.

CPK provides new managers with a comprehensive eight-week training program incorporating various learning methods such as online modules, reading materials, and hands-on mentoring. This structured training supports managers in honing their leadership skills and operational expertise. The company also invests in ongoing development through a unique electronic learning platform called "The Proof," designed to encourage continuous growth. Managers enjoy an energetic, passionate company culture with opportunities for career advancement, as CPK prioritizes promoting from within. Employees benefit from several perks including complimentary pizza during work hours, a Management Dine-Out card for meals with family and friends, and an employee assistance program known as the Kindness Fund for support during personal challenges.

Physical demands and working conditions of the FOH Manager role include extended periods of sitting, standing, or walking, occasional lifting of up to 40 pounds, and maintaining awareness of a moderately noisy and temperature-controlled environment. Vision capabilities required include close and distance vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception. CPK offers a competitive salary range for this position, from USD $80,000 to $85,000, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability insurance, and a 401K plan.

Joining CPK means becoming part of a forward-thinking and inclusive team that values integrity, innovation, and community engagement. The company upholds equal opportunity employment and does not discriminate based on legally protected characteristics. Everyone truly has a seat at the CPK table. This role is ideal for dynamic leaders passionate about hospitality and eager to advance their managerial career in a vibrant and unique restaurant environment.