Director of Food and Beverage

Company Description

The Ivy Hotel, recently distinguished as Maryland's only Michelin Two Key property, is an extraordinary boutique hotel in Baltimore’s historic Mount Vernon neighborhood, with 17 guest rooms and suites, a small luxury spa, and Magdalena, one of Baltimore’s top restaurants. Consistently rated in the “best of” categories, The Ivy’s highly inclusive room rate includes everything from made-to-order breakfast and evening cocktails to private car service and valet parking. 

Magdalena has a French brigade-style kitchen and a close-knit, talented, diverse culinary team. 

The seasonal Magdalena menu is grounded in the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay region. Ingredients are sourced close to home and relationships with local farmers and purveyors are at the heart of the culinary philosophy - which includes whole animal butchery/utilization, methods of seasonal preservation, and in-house baking and pastry. 

A fun, sophisticated cocktail program, Wine Spectator-awarded wine list, and revered whiskey collection complete an unmatched dining experience. Together, the Magdalena team creates an artistic, from-scratch expression of Maryland.

Job Description

The Ivy Hotel seeks a Food and Beverage Director to lead our culinary and beverage operations with precision and passion. This hands-on leadership role is essential to ensuring the seamless delivery of world-class dining experiences across all outlets. 

Responsibilities: 

Operational Leadership

• Oversee all food and beverage outlets, including Magdalena, tea service, breakfast operations, and special events.
• Lead by example, working alongside the team to maintain a hands-on, service-oriented leadership approach.
• Ensure consistency and excellence in all guest interactions, upholding Relais & Chateaux service standards.

Team Management

• Recruit, train, and mentor culinary and service teams to meet and exceed performance expectations.
• Foster collaboration between the front and back of house to ensure operational efficiency.
• Implement performance management processes and provide ongoing coaching to ensure team success.

Program Development

• Guide the culinary teams in menu planning, execution, and presentation.
• Curate a craft beverage program, including cocktails, artisanal spirits, and an award-winning wine list.
• Maintain and elevate the Wine Spectator-recognized wine program, ensuring offerings align with guest preferences and industry trends.

Financial Oversight

• Manage budgets, P&L, and cost controls, ensuring profitability while maintaining quality.
• Conduct regular financial analysis to identify opportunities for revenue growth and cost efficiencies.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and alcohol service regulations.

Guest Experience

• Act as an ambassador for The Ivy Hotel, engaging directly with guests to ensure satisfaction.
• Respond promptly to guest feedback, implementing solutions to enhance the dining experience.
• Believe in a service philosophy of “The answer is yes.”
• Uphold the property’s Relais & Châteaux and Michelin standards, driving innovation while honoring tradition.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in food and beverage operations, preferably in a luxury or fine dining setting.
• Expertise in managing multiple outlets and leading cross-functional teams.
• Strong knowledge of front and back of house operations, including menu planning, beverage programs, and service standards.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, P&L, and operational KPIs.
• Familiarity with luxury dining standards, craft beverage trends, and fine wine programs.
• Certifications such as Sommelier, ServSafe, Food Handlers, and RAM Alcohol Awareness are highly desirable but not required.
• Proficiency in POS systems and operational tools.
• Flexible schedule to accommodate the dynamic demands of luxury hospitality, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Eligibility to work in the United States. 

Additional Information

We offer:

• Competitive pay
• Great health and dental insurance
• Disability and life insurance options
• Retail and hospitality perks
• Free, high-quality meal when working
• Subsidized learning opportunities
• Paid vacations and holidays
• Retirement savings plan
• Supportive staff culture
• Extensive career advancement opportunities

The Ivy Hotel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check, and pre-employment drug test conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. The Ivy Hotel is a COVID-19 Vaccinated workforce and employment is contingent upon proof of full vaccination within 30 days of start date.