Who are we?
Freehand Hospitality operates several unique chef-driven restaurants and bars in the Queen’s Marque district on the Halifax waterfront including, Mystic, ToriDori, Drift, Bar Sofia, Café Lunette, Peacock, Daryâ, and Salt + Ash. Freehand's diverse portfolio showcases a wide array of cooking styles—from upscale Maritime dining to casual Latin fare—along with warm and genuine hospitality.
As the Director of Restaurant Operations, you will oversee the day-to-day operations and long-term strategy of multiple restaurant locations, ensuring each operates efficiently and maintains high standards of quality. Your role involves managing and mentoring staff, optimizing processes to enhance customer satisfaction, and collaborating with executive teams to drive profitability. Additionally, you will lead initiatives in cost control, budgeting, and resource allocation to streamline operations, all while fostering a positive culture that promotes teamwork and excellence in service.
As the Director of Restaurant Operations, you’ll get to:
· Working with General Managers and BOH team to develop annual operating budgets for your assigned portfolio that take into account seasonal nature of business, operating and capital requirements
· Coaching front of house leadership on all operational matters and holding teams accountable for financial budgets and guest satisfaction targets. Sharing best practices across outlets to increase performance levels and guest satisfaction
· Maintaining and delivering excellent brand standards though an understanding of the business plan and brand vision of each outlet
· Providing input into marketing strategies to enhance revenue growth and market penetration; highlighting persistent guest concerns and mechanisms for resolving
· Supporting vendor selection and contracting where appropriate.
· Developing, reviewing and revising standard operating procedures across all restaurants in assigned portfolio, ensuring consistent execution and adherence to company policy
· Regularly analyzing key performance metrics to identify areas for improvement, implementing action plans as necessary.
· Reporting to executive leadership on the performance of each outlet, its staff and any associated action plans as appropriate
· Conducting regular meetings with restaurant general managers and others in FOH leadership roles to provide feedback, set goals, and evaluate performance.
· Assisting with recruitment, training and staff planning; facilitating the flow of talent across multi-units; always with a view to creating stability in each unit
· Developing a management pipeline and career progression for new and existing managers
· Such other similar and related duties as required from time to time.
What we’re looking for:
· Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and/ or Business, considered an asset
· Proven track record in building high performance teams, leading cross-functionally, developing and retaining employees, and driving organizational goals
· Strong financial and business acumen
· Demonstrated project management and experience
· Strong collaborative skills with the proven ability to drive results and leadership ownership/accountability
· Strong interpersonal communication and creative problem-solving skills required
· Strong assessment and decision-making skills
· Proven ability to influence and build relationships both within the organization and with external sources
· Passion for creating excellent guest experiences
What’s in it for you:
· Comprehensive Health and Dental Benefits
· Employer RRSP plan
· Annual bonus incentive
· Employee Assistance Program
· Continuing education support
· Discounts at Freehand restaurants
· Access to a company fitness facility
· Opportunity for internal career growth
· Working along side a collaborative team of likeminded individuals
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Additional pay:
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Discounted or free food
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- On-site gym
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
Flexible language requirement:
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Application question(s):
- Please indicate why you would be a great candidate for this role.
Work Location: In person
