General Manager I

HMSHost is a global hospitality company renowned for its commitment to exceptional service and quality. With a strong presence in the travel and hospitality industry, HMSHost operates a wide range of dining and retail venues in airports, highways, and other travel locations worldwide. The company prides itself on its vibrant culture of engagement, fostering a workplace environment that values appreciation, caring, and inclusion. HMSHost supports its employees with competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and plentiful opportunities for training and career advancement. As a workplace, HMSHost seeks to inspire its associates to bring their best selves to work, creating memorable experiences for travelers on the move. The company emphasizes reliability, ethical practices, and streamlined operations to ensure that everyone—from employees to guests—feels great every day.

The role of the General Manager I (GM) at HMSHost is central to the operational success of a Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) or a small cluster of restaurants or points-of-sale generating sales generally up to $5 million annually. This management position involves overseeing all aspects of the restaurant's daily operations including cleanliness, staffing, opening and closing procedures, and ensuring that high standards of operational and financial performance are consistently met. The General Manager is given broad discretion and judgement to lead effectively, making key decisions that directly impact the bottom line and overall success of the establishment. As the leader on site, the GM is responsible for maintaining a supportive and motivating environment that encourages team engagement and excellent customer service. The role demands excellent leadership skills, a strong understanding of financial and operational metrics, and the ability to manage the complex dynamics of restaurant staff and resources.

A key responsibility of the General Manager I is managing the staffing and deployment of personnel to maximize profitability while taking full profit and loss responsibility. This involves preparing staff schedules, ensuring adequate shift coverage, and providing continual coaching and support to meet business targets. The manager conducts recruitment processes, manages employee on-boarding and off-boarding, and promotes the company’s diversity and inclusion philosophy in the workplace. Additionally, the GM oversees inventory management, product availability, and vendor relations to ensure smooth supply chain operations. They utilize essential management information systems and tools to monitor progress towards financial objectives, resolve operational issues, and implement strategic marketing and promotional activities to drive revenue growth.

The General Manager I must also enforce strict adherence to safety, health, and sanitary standards consistent with federal, state, and local regulations. They ensure that all safety protocols, including COVID-19 wellness checks, are followed, and that managers are held accountable for maintaining a safe working environment. Moreover, the GM ensures that brand and landlord requirements are thoroughly understood and integrated into daily operations, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders.

This position is an exempt role falling under both the Administrative and Executive exemptions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. General Managers typically report to a Director of Operations or regional leadership and are required to work varied and rotating schedules, encompassing opening, busy peak periods, and closing shifts. The role demands a minimum of 3 years of demonstrated restaurant profit and loss management experience, ideally supported by 5 to 7 years of overall restaurant experience in environments similar to QSR, casual dining, or full-service settings. Graduation from a Food Service Management or Culinary program may substitute for some of the required experience.

Overall, becoming a General Manager I at HMSHost means joining a company where passion for hospitality, leadership, and continuous learning are the foundation for success. If you possess high energy, a dedication to service, and a desire to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, this role offers an excellent platform for professional growth and achievement.