Manager/Chef

Description

Job Title: Manager / Chef
Reports To: General Manager

The Bison Den is seeking a proactive Manager/Chef to oversee daily operations and staff, ensuring exceptional customer experiences and operational efficiency. This full-time role requires a dynamic individual who can adapt quickly to our culture, demonstrate leadership, and take pride in maintaining high standards of hospitality and culinary excellence. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and special events is required.

As an Manager/Chef, you will be responsible for the following:

• Customer Experience. Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment, ensuring exceptional hospitality and customer satisfaction.
• Facility Management. Maintain cleanliness, organization, and professional appearance of the Bison Den, including signage, decor, and displays.
• Leadership & Team Engagement. Lead by example, promoting a culture of positivity, efficiency, and initiative among team members.
• Team Operations. Plan, assign, and oversee daily responsibilities of the team, ensuring smooth operations and adherence to policies.
• Alcohol Compliance. Ensure responsible alcohol service and enforce compliance with policies among staff.
• Event & Catering Management. Serve as the primary contact for catering, event planning, and coordination for activities such as themed events, musical performances, golf tournaments, and campus gatherings.
• Hands-On Support. Actively support team operations by performing bartending and cooking duties when needed.
• Cash Management. Oversee financial operations, including cash handling, opening/closing procedures, and accurate financial documentation.
• Inventory & Ordering. Conduct weekly/monthly inventory as directed. Manage food, beverage, and supply inventory, ensuring timely ordering and efficient stock control.
• Budget & Cost Management. Maintain budgeted food costs and other costs to align with financial goals.
• Safety & Compliance. Ensure adherence to the safety program, HACCP guidelines, and all health and safety regulations. Maintain certifications in Serve Safe, Allergen Awareness, and TIPS training to support team compliance and operations.
• Training, Teaching, & Mentorship. Mentor and teach college students by fostering their growth in hospitality, culinary, and management skills through on-the-job training and professional development opportunities.
• Opening & Closing. Perform opening and closing duties as needed to ensure seamless operations.
• Additional Duties. Perform other tasks as assigned by the General Manager or leadership team.

Role Requirements:

• Educational Background: A Bachelor's degree in hospitality, restaurant, or business management, or a Culinary Degree from an accredited culinary association is preferred.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with customers, team members, and leadership.
• Relationship Building: Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships within the organization and community.
• Leadership: Demonstrated capacity to motivate, inspire, and unify teams with a proactive leadership style.
• Compliance & Quality Control: Experience in enforcing policies, maintaining standards, and ensuring operational compliance with HACCP and safety programs.
• Self-Motivation: A self-starter with a strong work ethic, capable of working autonomously to achieve goals.
• Adaptability: Ability to multitask effectively and maintain professionalism in high-pressure, time-sensitive situations.
• Flexibility: Willingness to work long and irregular hours, including early mornings, weekends, and evenings, and to temporarily take on other roles as needed.
• Problem-Solving: Resourceful and composed under pressure, with the ability to navigate challenges and find practical solutions.
• Culinary Experience: Proven experience in cooking or chef roles, with the ability to perform culinary duties as needed.
• Higher Education Experience: Previous experience in a higher education setting is strongly preferred, with a passion for mentoring and teaching students.

Qualifications