General Manager

Wichita, KS, USA|

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Salary

Range $80,000.00 - $85,000.00

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life insurance

401(k) Plan

Paid Time Off

short-term disability

long-term disability

Parental leave

paid bereavement leave

on-demand pay program

meal plan

Employee Discounts

Job Description

SSA Group at Sedgwick County Zoo is a renowned team within SSA Holdings, a company with over 50 years of experience in creating meaningful and memorable experiences for people. SSA Group specializes in operating cultural, amusement, and iconic attractions, crafting environments where guests feel connected, inspired, and reminded that fun truly matters. Located at the Sedgwick County Zoo, SSA Group is committed to excellence and innovation in guest services, making every visit exceptional through outstanding management and operations. SSA Group is recognized not only for its operational expertise but also for its dedication to inclusion, sustainability, and community engagement, reinforcing its role as a leader in the attractions and hospitality industry.

This role is a full-time, exempt position of General Manager reporting to the Area General Manager and Regional Vice President. The General Manager will oversee all aspects of the zoo’s daily operations, including managing multiple department managers, driving financial performance, upholding client relationships, and ensuring compliance with policies and legislation. The position offers a competitive benefits package that includes a $75 monthly cell phone stipend, eligibility for bonuses based on company performance, and comprehensive health benefits.

The General Manager will coach, supervise, and lead all department managers to meet operational needs such as financial goals, staffing levels, product quality, merchandising, and client expectations. This role requires strategic planning, budgeting, scheduling, and a continuous focus on guest satisfaction through SSA’s EXTRA Guest Service standards. The incumbent will serve as the primary liaison between the client and SSA, maintaining strong, positive relationships with client representatives and staff, and collaborating closely with marketing to boost guest experience and operational efficiency.

In addition to daily management, the General Manager is responsible for financial oversight including budgeting, forecasting, sales analysis, and managing controllable expenses. This role requires ensuring all fiscal deadlines are met and managing invoicing and cash reconciliation accurately and timely. The General Manager will also collaborate on business assessments, pricing strategies, menu development, special events, and capital project management. They will actively promote an inclusive and supportive workplace culture while upholding company policies and legal compliance. This role demands flexibility to work varied hours including nights, weekends, and holidays, and requires physical stamina for standing and handling operational needs.

The ideal candidate will have at least five years of operations management experience, with preference given to those with two years in cultural, iconic, amusement, or museum attractions. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for success. Candidates should be adept at team development, financial management, and comfortable operating technology for office functions. Physical ability to lift and move boxes up to 35 lbs and work extended periods on foot is required. ServSafe certification is a plus but not mandatory. SSA Group promotes a culture of diversity and inclusion, sustainable business practices, and strong community engagement, making this an enriching leadership opportunity within the Sedgwick County Zoo and SSA Holdings’ family of brands.

Job Requirements

Strong interpersonal and communication skills including ability to articulate to client and management
Proven leadership skills with team building and development
Exceptional problem solving and decision making skills
Demonstrates financial management, merchandising, analytical and planning skills
Ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment
Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions
Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift/move boxes up to 35 lbs
Ability to work varied hours including nights, weekends and holidays
Must be at least 18 years old
Five years operations management experience
Two years management experience in cultural, iconic, amusement or museum attraction preferred
ServSafe certification a plus

Job Qualifications

Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Proven leadership and team-building abilities
Exceptional problem solving and decision making skills
Demonstrated financial management, merchandising, analytical and planning skills
Ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment
Computer proficiency for basic office functions
Knowledge of local, state and federal laws relevant to operations
Experience managing budgets, payroll and sales
Ability to develop and implement training programs
Commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and community involvement

Job Duties

Coach, supervise, direct all department managers so operational needs are met on a daily basis
Schedule management personnel as necessary
Assist designated management team or individuals in developing training standards for alcohol service, customer service, safety, harassment, etc.
Host all meetings for management team and conduct training sessions as needed
Work with Executive Chef, Retail Operations Manager and Buyer to track, maintain and budget inventory and Cost of Goods (COG)
Act as main liaison between the Client and SSA
Maintain close relationship with direct client report and client staff to ensure positive working relationship
Collaborate with marketing to drive company efforts, guest experience and operational output
Attend Client meetings and report monthly to Regional Manager(s)
Manage in accordance with local, state and federal laws
Maintain a clean, safe and organized work environment
Uphold and demonstrate understanding of company policies and procedures
Manage unit’s financials through budgeting, forecasting, and sales management
Ensure fiscal deadlines are met to HQ
Manage all invoice processing accurately and timely
Provide precise reports for cash reconciliation, flash reporting, item analysis, monthly inventory and payroll percentages
Complete business assessment with market pricing to drive per cap revenue
Forecast weekly sales and maintain monthly sales analysis
Manage payroll and controllable profit within established guidelines
Set precedent to achieve sales, per cap & controllable budget
Minimize controllable operation costs
Strategize revenue avenues and negotiation to meet goals
Perform SSA EXTRA Guest Service steps to ensure a memorable experience
Manage day-to-day functions of all applicable departments
Maintains knowledge and implementation of SSA and Client contracts
Support progressive discipline documentation
Keep operating manuals up to date
Review and approve all plans for major special events
Manage design and implementation of menus and pricing
Participate in long-range planning for department programs
Manage capital projects to client and SSA expectations
Manage business legal needs with HQ
Ensure proper employee integration and exit
Promote inclusive and supportive unit culture
Oversee editorial role on unit publications
Advocate for sustainability and conservation efforts
Support community engagement through hiring and activities
Perform other duties as necessary