General Manager / Director of Operations – US Flagship Launch

Job Title: General Manager / Director of Operations – US Flagship Launch

Location: Fairfield County, CT (Greater NYC Area)

Company Overview: Step into the forefront of culinary innovation with the launch of an unparalleled Italian Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) concept that redefines fast-casual dining. This unique brand brings authentic Italian traditions, refined recipes, and an elevated dining experience unlike anything currently in the US market. We are seeking a visionary leader who can introduce this groundbreaking concept to American audiences and lay the groundwork for future nationwide growth.

Job Summary: The General Manager or Director of Operations will lead the opening and operations of the first-ever US location of this one-of-a-kind Italian QSR. This role is not only about operational excellence but also about embodying the brand's ethos, serving as the cultural and culinary ambassador. The ideal candidate will have a passion for pioneering new concepts, strategic foresight, and the capability to create an unforgettable dining experience that sets a new standard in the industry. Initial training will take place in Budapest, home to the brand’s existing operations, to ensure a deep understanding of the concept.

Key Responsibilities

• Pioneering Operations: Direct all aspects of pre-opening planning and day-to-day operations, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, quality, and guest experience.
• Brand Champion: Represent the brand with authenticity and enthusiasm, cultivating a strong identity that resonates with both guests and the community.
• Team Leadership: Assemble, mentor, and inspire a high-performance team that embodies the brand’s dedication to excellence and warm hospitality.
• Pre-Opening Strategy: Lead comprehensive pre-launch activities, including recruitment, training, systems implementation, and marketing coordination.
• Guest-Centric Experience: Develop and maintain a guest experience that reflects the elegance and authenticity of Italian dining, emphasizing quality and personalized service.
• Financial Stewardship: Oversee budget planning, cost control, and revenue growth, ensuring the restaurant meets its financial objectives.
• Community Engagement: Build strategic partnerships with local entities to foster brand recognition and loyalty, becoming a cornerstone of the local dining scene.
• Expansion Support: Lay the operational and strategic groundwork for scaling the brand to new locations across the US.
  
  

Requirements

• Experience: 7-10 years in restaurant management, ideally with experience launching innovative dining concepts. Knowledge of both QSR and upscale dining operations is a plus.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and develop teams, inspire loyalty, and drive outstanding results.
• Operational Expertise: Comprehensive understanding of restaurant operations, financial management, and quality control processes.
• Pioneering Spirit: Passionate about breaking new ground and comfortable operating in an uncharted space in the market.
• Cultural Appreciation: Deep respect and enthusiasm for Italian cuisine and culture, with the ability to embody and promote this through leadership.
• Training Commitment: Willing to travel to Budapest for in-depth training and immersion in the brand’s philosophy and operations.
• Adaptability: Demonstrated ability to handle the evolving demands of a first-time market entry, with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset.
• Availability: Flexible to work varied hours, including nights and weekends, as required by operational needs.
  
  

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and performance bonuses.
• A pioneering role with the opportunity to influence and lead a unique, market-defining brand.
• Comprehensive training and cultural immersion in Budapest.
• Long-term career growth potential as the brand scales across the US.
  
  

Join Us: Be part of a truly innovative journey that reimagines the QSR landscape in the US. If you’re a trailblazer with operational expertise and a passion for leading new culinary ventures, we invite you to apply and shape the future of dining with us.