General Manager

The Last Picture House; Davenport (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Last Picture House seeks a full-time General Manager to spearhead operations at a cultural hub in Davenport. The role demands a dynamic leader to foster team collaboration, manage day-to-day tasks, and ensure a welcoming environment through artistic engagement and exceptional service.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in the service industry or hospitality management.
• Strong commitment to community engagement.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing team and oversee daily operations.
• Manage vendor relationships and financial oversight.
• Engage with the community and guests to enhance experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal Skills

Customer Service

Organizational Skills

Creativity

Tools

Point of Sale Systems

Budgeting Tools

Scheduling Solutions

Social Media Platforms

Job description

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Direct message the job poster from The Last Picture House

The Last Picture House is seeking a full-time General Manager to lead the operations of a boutique two-screen cinema, rooftop bar, and social lounge in the heart of the Quad Cities metropolitan region on the Iowa/Illinois border.

Co-owned by Iowa filmmakers Scott Beck & Bryan Woods — best known as the creators of A Quiet Place and A24’s Heretic — the theater blends first-run film programming with arthouse, cult, and classic cinema. It also features a creative cocktail lounge and a steady rotation of exclusive events with directors, actors, writers, and other industry guests. The Last Picture House fills a unique cultural niche in the Quad Cities, offering an artistic hub for audiences of all ages and tastes.

Responsibilities

We’re looking for a dynamic, people-focused leader to build and inspire a high-performing team while overseeing daily operations and long-term growth. The General Manager will serve as the connective thread between patrons, staff, vendors, and ownership — setting the tone for exceptional service, a vibrant workplace culture, and meaningful community engagement.

This is a hands-on leadership role with opportunities for creative input across programming, marketing, special events, and more. Candidates should bring strong experience in hospitality, events, or theater operations, along with a genuine love of the arts and a commitment to making The Last Picture House a welcoming space for all.

The position requires at least 40 hours per week, including evenings, weekend hours, and some holidays. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Team Leadership & Culture: Recruit, train, and lead a team of staff across theater operations, bar service, and guest experience. Foster a collaborative, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture.

Strategic Growth: Collaborate with ownership to develop and implement strategic initiatives that drive business growth, build community partnerships, and elevate the theater’s cultural presence.

Operations Management: Oversee day-to-day operations, including show scheduling, concessions, maintenance, and guest services. Ensure smooth and efficient performance across all departments.

Programming & Events: Work with film distributors, and projectionists to coordinate programming. Support event execution with staff oversight — ensuring operational support and staff readiness.

Vendor & Financial Oversight: Manage relationships with vendors, handle inventory and supplies, oversee budgeting, accounts payable, payroll, and cash management.

Facility Oversight: Monitor the physical theater space, identifying and addressing building, equipment, or maintenance needs proactively.

Guest & Community Engagement: Serve as a visible, welcoming presence in the theater (note: not necessarily the public face, but a key leader in day-to-day patron engagement). Build relationships with regulars, new visitors, and the broader community.

Qualifications/Skills

The ideal candidate will have proven experience in the service industry or hospitality management, with a strong emphasis on creating and sustaining a positive, team-oriented work environment. They should be a self-starter who is highly organized, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced setting. Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills are essential, along with a genuine commitment to excellent customer service and community engagement. Creativity and initiative in marketing, programming, and event planning are highly valued. Technical savvy is required; proficiency in point of sale systems, scheduling and payroll solutions, budgeting and financial tools, and social media platforms is strongly recommended. This role requires flexibility, including regular evening, weekend, and holiday availability.

Compensation

Location

Applicants must be based in or relocate to Davenport, Iowa (Quad Cities).

To Apply

Send a resume and cover letter to [e-mail] . Submissions are being considered immediately.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Director

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

• Industries

  Entertainment Providers

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