General Manager

General Manager

Big Bear Bar & Grill – Ellijay, Georgia

Position Summary

The General Manager is responsible for the overall success of Big Bear Bar & Grill. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring an individual who can build sales, control costs, develop high-performing teams, and deliver exceptional guest experiences while leading by example.

The General Manager must possess an ownership mentality, balancing financial performance with outstanding hospitality while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all daily restaurant operations and set the standard for professionalism and service.

• Increase sales through exceptional guest experiences, local marketing initiatives, community involvement, and staff coaching.

• Manage labor, food, beverage, and operating costs to achieve profitability goals.

• Prepare and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial performance reports.

• Analyze sales trends and implement strategies to increase revenue and guest frequency.

• Recruit, hire, train, coach, and develop high-performing team members.

• Build a culture of accountability, teamwork, and respect.

• Resolve guest concerns quickly and professionally, turning challenges into opportunities.

• Work collaboratively with the Executive Chef while effectively managing different personalities and resolving conflicts in a respectful, solution-focused manner.

• Maintain high standards of food quality, beverage quality, cleanliness, safety, and service.

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, alcohol, and labor regulations.

• Oversee inventory, purchasing, scheduling, and cost controls.

• Demonstrate a hands-on leadership style by supporting all areas of restaurant operations whenever needed, regardless of the task.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming facility at all times.

• Build strong relationships with guests, employees, vendors, and the local community.

• Continuously seek opportunities to improve operations, increase efficiency, and grow the business.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of restaurant management experience.

• Proven success increasing restaurant sales and profitability.

• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, labor management, inventory control, and P&L analysis.

• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams and manage conflict effectively.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

• Experience in upscale casual dining preferred.

• Knowledge of food, wine, spirits, and hospitality operations.

• ServSafe Manager Certification (or ability to obtain).

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal General Manager is a servant leader who earns the respect of the team by working alongside them. They inspire people through action rather than title, remain calm under pressure, embrace accountability, and are passionate about delivering exceptional hospitality. They are equally comfortable reviewing financial statements, coaching employees, engaging with guests, collaborating with the Executive Chef, and solving operational challenges while maintaining the highest standards throughout the restaurant.

At Big Bear Bar & Grill, leadership is measured by results, integrity, accountability, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to support the team and deliver an exceptional guest experience.