Restaurant Manager

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) is a renowned restaurant brand that has been a pioneer in bringing innovative, fresh California-inspired cuisine to the dining experience since its founding in 1985 by former federal prosecutors Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax. Known for its creative culinary approach, CPK introduced a variety of hearth-baked pizzas such as The Original BBQ Chicken, California Club, and Thai Chicken, which have become favorites among its loyal customers. CPK’s vibrant open kitchens and passionate commitment to fresh ingredients have set the brand apart, making it synonymous with quality, creativity, and California flair. Over the years, CPK has evolved into a community of taste makers, rule breakers, and earth shakers who thrive by pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box in food and service innovation. The company culture is strongly influenced by the ROCKS philosophy—Respect, Opportunity, Communication, Kindness, and Service—a set of core values that guide employees and leadership alike in delivering superior experiences to guests and nurturing a supportive workplace environment.

The position available at California Pizza Kitchen is one oriented towards leadership within a front-of-house (FOH) management capacity, designed for professionals passionate about hospitality, team development, and operational excellence in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant setting. As a FOH manager, you will play a critical role in driving the company’s mission through hands-on leadership, fostering a people-first environment that promotes growth and engagement among team members. This role offers the opportunity to inspire and motivate staff, uphold CPK’s brand standards, and ensure exceptional guest experiences through effective team management and operational oversight.

The role involves managing various facets of restaurant operations including sales growth, budgeting, labor management, and maintaining health and safety standards to secure a safe and welcoming environment. You will be responsible for building a high-performing team oriented around hospitality and culinary skill, encouraging career development and cross-training opportunities. The role requires excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to liaise effectively with team members, guests, suppliers, and senior management. Financial acumen is critical as you will oversee the restaurant’s profit and loss (P&L) statements, forecast financials, control labor costs, and ensure portion controls and budget adherence.

CPK also values personal growth and offers a comprehensive eight-week training program that leverages multiple learning methods including online resources, printed materials, and hands-on mentoring to equip managers with the tools they need for success. Employees benefit from a passionate and unique company culture, robust opportunities for career advancement, and a variety of engaging development platforms such as “The Proof,” an electronic learning system promoting continuous development. The company offers industry-competitive compensation, including bonus potential, and a comprehensive benefits package covering medical, dental, and vision insurance along with disability coverage. The environment encourages uniqueness and expression of individual talents, further supported by an employee-driven Kindness Fund to assist team members during life challenges. Additionally, managers enjoy perks like unlimited pizza during shifts and a Management Dine-Out card for personal use.

CPK is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and fostering a supportive workspace where every individual has a seat at the table. This role offers an exciting chance to join a company at the forefront of culinary innovation and community-oriented service that values passion, creativity, and collaboration.