Restaurant GM: Lead Teams, Elevate Guest Experience

Salem's Fresh Eats; Lakeland (FL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Growth opportunities

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Employee meals and discounts

Continuous leadership training

Vibrant collaborative culture

Job summary

Salem’s Fresh Eats in Lakeland, FL is seeking a General Manager who will lead restaurant operations, drive guest satisfaction, and develop a high-performing team. You’ll own daily performance, uphold brand standards, and model hospitality with integrity.

You’ll coach staff, manage scheduling and costs, implement local marketing, and ensure safe, quality service. A ServeSafe certification and a valid driver's license are required; willingness to relocate within 50 miles is a plus.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in restaurant or fast-paced hospitality.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to coach and motivate diverse teams with professionalism.
• Working knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and compliance standards.
• Financial acumen, including budgeting and cost control experience.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Willingness to relocate within a 50-mile radius as needed.
• ServeSafe certification and company management certification required.
• High school diploma or equivalent; culinary/management training is a plus.
• Must have valid Driver's License.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, train, and lead restaurant staff including management and front-line teams.
• Create a positive, inclusive workplace that promotes teamwork, respect, and accountability.
• Lead by example through professionalism, hospitality, and a hands-on leadership style.
• Recognize and reward outstanding performance to build engagement and morale.
• Implement strong training programs to support employee growth and career progression.
• Coach, mentor, and develop team members through ongoing feedback and personalized development plans.
• Foster a “learn and improve” culture by encouraging continuous training and professional development.
• Ensure every guest is greeted warmly, served promptly, and leaves happier than they arrived.
• Handle guest feedback with empathy and professionalism, turning challenges into opportunities.
• Lead the team to deliver consistent, high-quality food and service that reflect our brand standards.
• Oversee all daily restaurant operations - food preparation, service, cleanliness, and safety.
• Maintain compliance with company policies and local health and safety regulations.
• Manage scheduling, staffing levels, and performance to optimize results.
• Conduct regular facility walk-throughs to ensure a clean, safe, and efficient environment.
• Execute local marketing initiatives and community outreach that strengthen brand awareness.
• Analyze performance data to identify opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Partner with your team to promote specials, events, and brand campaigns.
• Build relationships with guests and the community to drive repeat business.
• Achieve sales and profit goals while managing labor, food, and controllable costs.
• Maintain accurate financial reporting and ensure proper cash handling procedures.
• Conduct regular inventory audits, monitor stock levels, and ensure timely ordering.
• Collaborate with vendors for high-quality, cost-effective, and responsibly sourced products.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team development

Food safety & compliance

Budgeting & cost control

Evenings/weekends/holidays

Relocation allowed (within 50 miles)

Education

ServeSafe certification

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Salem’s Fresh Eats in Lakeland, FL is seeking a General Manager who will lead restaurant operations, drive guest satisfaction, and develop a high-performing team. You’ll own daily performance, uphold brand standards, and model hospitality with integrity.

You’ll coach staff, manage scheduling and costs, implement local marketing, and ensure safe, quality service. A ServeSafe certification and a valid driver's license are required; willingness to relocate within 50 miles is a plus.