Menu Development & Quality Assurance

Our client is a reputable Japanese restaurant chain located in Torrance, CA, specializing in delivering authentic and innovative Japanese cuisine to its diverse customer base. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional culinary techniques adapted to local tastes, this company has established itself as a leader in the restaurant and food and beverage industry. As a full-time, exempt position, the role offers a competitive salary range of $60,000 to $85,000 annually. Additionally, E-2 visa sponsorship may be considered for qualified candidates, reflecting the company's commitment to attracting talented professionals from diverse backgrounds.

The position of Product Development & Quality Manager is a critical role within the organization, responsible for steering menu innovation, assuring product quality, and maintaining operational consistency across all restaurant locations. This role requires a dynamic individual who can blend culinary expertise with quality control and operational oversight. The manager will lead efforts to develop and test new menu items and seasonal offerings, ensuring these meet the company's standards and appeal to the local market's evolving preferences. The individual will also handle the refinement of existing menu items based on customer feedback and business needs, adapting Japanese food concepts to resonate with local patrons.

In addition to innovation, the role encompasses rigorous quality management duties. The manager will monitor product quality standards across multiple restaurant sites, ensure that recipes are rigorously followed, and conduct regular store visits to assess food quality, presentation, and operational compliance. By identifying any quality issues promptly and implementing corrective actions, the manager safeguards the brand's reputation and customer satisfaction. Collaboration with restaurant operations teams and vendors is essential to maintaining these standards and supporting continuous improvement.

Inventory and product management also fall under the purview of this position. The manager will oversee product ordering and inventory processes, monitor stock levels, and coordinate purchasing activities, including the management of imported products and specialty food items such as sauces and ingredients. Close coordination with vendors about product specifications, sourcing, and quality concern is necessary to ensure seamless supply chain operations.

Cross-functional collaboration is a key element of the role. The manager will work closely with restaurant operations, management teams, vendors, and corporate stakeholders to align product development and quality initiatives with strategic goals. Additionally, liaising with Japan-based teams helps maintain authentic standards and facilitates the rollout of new menu offerings and operational procedures. This role demands strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively partner with multiple teams and deliver consistent execution and quality across all stores.

Overall, this role offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned professional passionate about Japanese cuisine and quality management to drive innovation and excellence in a thriving restaurant chain environment. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced setting that values creativity, operational rigor, and cross-cultural collaboration.