General Manager

SERVE Hospitality Group; Gurnee (IL, AL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with 4% company match

Performance bonus up to 1% of store销售

Job summary

SERVE Hospitality Group is seeking a General Manager for Tropical Smoothie Cafe to lead daily operations, develop talent, and drive strong financial results in Illinois (Gurnee). You will cultivate an exceptional guest experience while upholding brand standards and safety.

Join a growth-focused organization offering competitive pay, a five-day workweek, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) with 4% match.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in restaurant management or supervision.
• Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Willing to work weekends/holidays; valid US driver license; US work authorization.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and inspire a team of 15-25 employees.
• Oversee daily cafe operations to ensure high-quality execution.
• Manage budgets, control labor and food costs, and drive profitability.
• Oversee ordering, inventory levels, and vendor relationships.

Skills

Restaurant mgmt experience

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Flexible schedule

Driver's license

US work authorization

Education

ServSafe Manager Certification

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Company Overview

At SERVE Hospitality Group, it's more than smoothies- it's about serving smiles, one guest at a time. Built on hospitality, connection, and community, every interaction is a chance to brighten someone's day.

SERVE Hospitality Group proudly operates 30+ Tropical Smoothie Cafe locations and is rapidly growing. As a fast-scaling, multi-unit franchisee, we're expanding this nationally recognized brand with bold energy and purpose. Backed by a strong development pipeline and committed internal capital, we're building a culture-driven, high-performance business that blends speed, discipline, and operational excellence.

About the Role

Tropical Smoothie Cafe is seeking an experienced and high-energy General Manager to lead daily operations, develop talent, and drive strong financial results. You will be the key leader responsible for cultivating an exceptional guest experience and upholding our high operational standards.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary of $55,000 - $58,000 annually, plus a performance-driven bonus of up to 1% of store sales (average $10,000)
• Work-life balance with flexible scheduling, a five‑day workweek, and consistent closing times (9 pm)
• Clean, healthy environment- no fryers, no grease, just fresh ingredients
• Career growth opportunities with clear internal promotion pathways
• Back-office support with recruiting, payroll, and administrative assistance
• SERVE benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k) with 4% company match (eligibility based on tenure, age, and hours requirements)

Key Responsibilitie s:

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and inspire a team of 15-25 employees
• Conduct ongoing training, development, and performance evaluations
• Ensure strong communication and a positive team culture

Operations & Guest Experience

• Oversee daily cafe operations to ensure consistent, high-quality execution
• Maintain exceptional guest service standards and resolve concerns promptly
• Ensure adherence to brand standards and safety/health compliance

Financial & Performance Management

• Manage budgets, control labor and food costs, and drive profitability
• Analyze performance metrics and implement improvement strategies
• Achieve or exceed internal audit and health inspection standards

Inventory & Vendor Management

• Oversee ordering, inventory levels, and vendor relationships
• Ensure proper food handling, storage, and product rotation

Our Ideal Candidate:

Required Qualifications:

• 2+ years of restaurant management or supervisory experience
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays
• Valid driver's license and authorization to work in the U.S.

Preferred Qualifications:

• ServSafe Manager Certification
• Experience managing fast-casual or multi-unit restaurant teams

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs
• Approximately 50 hours per week of onsite work

Join Our Team

Apply today and start your adventure with SERVE Hospitality Group. Let's blend up some brilliance together!

SERVE Hospitality Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.