Area Director Of Food And Beverage

Job Summary:

The Area Director of Food & Beverage is responsible for overseeing the entire food and beverage operations at Avalon Palm Springs and Ingleside Estate, ensuring exceptional service and operational excellence across both properties. This role will lead, direct, and manage all aspects of food and beverage service, including budgeting, staff management, menu planning, quality control, and customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in high-end hospitality and a passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all food and beverage outlets at Avalon Palm Springs and Ingleside Estate, including banquets.
• Develop and implement effective operational procedures to maximize efficiency, quality, and guest satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Monitor food and beverage costs, labor, and inventory, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Lead, mentor, and develop food and beverage management team across both locations.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Develop and execute training programs for staff to maintain high service standards and promote career growth.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback to staff, addressing any performance or behavioral issues as needed.
• Maintain a strong presence in all food and beverage outlets, interacting with guests to ensure high levels of satisfaction and resolve any concerns promptly.
• Oversee the execution of banquets and catering services to meet guest needs.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless guest experiences, from arrival to departure.
• Prepare and manage annual food and beverage budgets for both properties, ensuring profitability while maintaining quality service.
• Analyze financial performance reports and take corrective actions to improve results.
• Oversee inventory control and ordering to minimize waste and maximize cost efficiency.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to develop seasonal menus that align with the brand’s vision, local trends, and guest preferences.
• Continuously evaluate and update beverage offerings to ensure a diverse and high-quality selection.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control to maintain consistency.
• Work with the sales and marketing team to develop promotional strategies for food and beverage offerings, increasing visibility and guest engagement.
• Build relationships with vendors, local businesses, and the community to promote Avalon Palm Springs and Ingleside Estate as premier destinations for dining and events.
• Collaborates with senior leaders to implement strategic initiatives.
• Assist with implementing company-wide policies and procedures to ensure brand consistency across both properties.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field, preferred.
• At least 5-7 years of progressive leadership experience in food and beverage management, preferably in luxury hotel or resort settings.
• Strong experience with food and beverage operations, catering, and special events management.
• Experience managing teams across multiple properties or locations is a plus.
• Bi-lingual in Spanish is preferred.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Skills & Competencies:

• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams while maintaining a focus on guest satisfaction and financial performance.
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to analyze and manage budgets, costs, and revenues.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Deep understanding of food and beverage trends, industry standards, and best practices.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with food and beverage management software (POS systems, inventory software, etc.).

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds when necessary.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and sometimes physically demanding environment.

AVALON HOTEL & BUNGALOWS PALM SPRINGS

An old-world hideaway in the heart of Palm Springs, Avalon is a desert oasis tucked into the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains. With 70 Spanish-style lodgings, including romantic studios and 13 private villas; 3 cabana-lined pools; the acclaimed Chi Chi restaurant; and the restorative Estrella Spa, it’s no secret while Avalon’s sun-kissed, lush, citrus tree-lined grounds have been a Hollywood playground since the 1930s.

INGLESIDE ESTATE

At the historic Ingleside Estate & Melvyn’s Restaurant, an old Hollywood glamour runs deep: Built in the 1920’s for the heirs to the Pierce Arrow Automobile Company, it was later purchased in 1935 by Palm Springs pioneer Ruth Hardy. Through the years, Ingleside served as a Palm Springs escape for A-list names including Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe, and Elizabeth Taylor, with a legacy that's still felt in its serene, hedge-lined grounds. A relaxed elegance is palpable throughout the 30 Spanish Revival rooms and suites, and on the lush lawn with pool and hot tub. The iconic dining experience of Melvyn’s restaurant and lounge completes this picturesque setting to play and escape it all.