Restaurant Operations Manager

Black Walnut Cafe is a well-established restaurant renowned for its quality food, warm ambiance, and exceptional customer service. This dining establishment prides itself on offering a welcoming environment where guests can enjoy a memorable culinary experience. The cafe operates with a strong commitment to maintaining high standards across all facets of its operations, from frontline customer interactions to food safety and vendor relations. As a brand, Black Walnut Cafe embodies a culture that values teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement, making it an ideal workplace for professionals dedicated to delivering excellence in the hospitality industry.

The Operations Manager role at Black Walnut Cafe is a pivotal leadership position focused on overseeing all front-of-the-house (FOH) operations to ensure every guest’s experience is seamless and enjoyable. This position demands a hands-on leader who is highly organized and motivated, capable of managing personnel, vendor relations, cleanliness, and operational efficiency during a demanding 50 to 55-hour work week. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Operations Manager is responsible for the overall performance of the FOH team, stepping in to manage the store in the absence of the General Manager.

Key responsibilities revolve around maintaining optimal guest relations by ensuring the right staffing levels on every shift, preparing staff to meet diverse guest needs, and upholding impeccable standards for cleanliness in the restrooms and dining areas. Managing security protocols and shrinkage control are critical components of the role to safeguard the store's assets and operational integrity. The Operations Manager also coordinates closely with other members of the management team to monitor inventory control, check incoming product quality, and manage invoice processing, including handling vendor credits. Effective schedule writing and training of FOH partners to achieve proficiency are essential to sustaining high productivity and customer satisfaction.

The Operations Manager at Black Walnut Cafe must demonstrate excellent conflict management and communication skills, exhibiting the ability to remain composed under pressure and resolve guest complaints diplomatically. Physical stamina is also necessary, as the role requires being on feet for up to 14 hours per day and sometimes lifting items up to 50 pounds. Computer proficiency and organizational aptitude are vital for managing schedules and processing invoices accurately, while time management skills help the manager juggle multiple responsibilities effectively.

This role is ideal for a motivated individual who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about developing team members through coaching and leadership. Those with a strong sense of urgency, great people skills, and a commitment to upholding high personal and professional standards will find this position highly rewarding. By driving operational excellence and fostering a positive work environment, the Operations Manager plays an integral role in maintaining Black Walnut Cafe’s reputation as a premier dining destination.