General Manager - Fine Dining Restaurant

ICTEngage; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent fine dining establishment in Pretoria is seeking a General Manager to oversee operations and enhance the guest experience. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership in a similar setting, with strong skills in staff management and customer service. Key responsibilities include managing daily operations, ensuring high standards of service, and controlling financial performance. This role offers a dynamic and engaging work environment, aiming to provide exceptional dining experiences.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a management role within a fine dining restaurant.
• Ability to handle customer complaints professionally.
• Strong organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily restaurant operations, ensuring efficiency.
• Deliver superior guest services and engage customers.
• Hire, train, and evaluate staff performance.

Skills

Leadership skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication abilities

Financial acumen

Multitasking

Social media marketing

Job description

Job Overview: The General Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of the restaurant’s operations to ensure a world-class dining experience for guests. This role requires a strong leader with experience in fine dining, who can drive sales, manage staff effectively, maintain operational excellence, and create a welcoming and professional environment for both guests and employees.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operations Management

• Oversee daily restaurant operations, ensuring smooth and efficient functioning across front-of-house and back-of-house.
• Organize and supervise staff shifts, ensuring proper coverage and operational efficiency.
• Monitor operations closely and initiate corrective actions as needed to maintain high standards.
• Implement new ideas to improve productivity, service efficiency, and upselling opportunities.

2. Guest Experience & Service Excellence

• Deliver superior guest services by maintaining a high standard of hospitality.
• Ensure guest satisfaction through proactive engagement and service quality.
• Develop strong relationships with regular customers to encourage repeat visits.
• Respond efficiently to customer questions, feedback, and complaints, ensuring resolutions that uphold the restaurant’s reputation.

3. Staff Management & Development

• Hire, train, and evaluate staff performance to build a motivated and high-performing team.
• Lead by example and delegate responsibilities effectively to ensure accountability.
• Nurture a positive working environment that encourages teamwork, engagement, and professional growth.

4. Culinary & Menu Oversight

• Ensure that the Executive Chef maintains food quality, adheres to food cost requirements, and manages inventory efficiently.
• Monitor that new specials are introduced on a two-week rotation to maintain guest interest.

5. Financial & Cost Control

• Control restaurant costs and minimize waste to optimize profitability.
• Manage restaurant supplies and ensure suppliers provide quality products.

6. Marketing & Community Engagement

• Post new developments, specials, and events on social media to engage customers.
• Represent the restaurant at local food events and community activities to enhance visibility and reputation.

Qualifications & Skills

• Proven experience in a management role within a fine dining restaurant.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Ability to handle customer complaints professionally and diplomatically.
• Strong financial acumen with experience controlling costs, inventory, and budgeting.
• Knowledge of social media marketing and community engagement.
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask and manage competing priorities.

Personal Attributes

• Passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Problem-solving and decision-making capabilities under pressure.
• Professional, approachable, and enthusiastic personality.
• Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Performance Metrics

• Guest satisfaction scores and repeat customer rates.
• Staff retention, engagement, and performance evaluations.
• Achievement of sales targets and cost control objectives.
• Positive representation and engagement in the local community.