General Manager - Bellevue New Shop Opening

Salt & Straw • Bellevue, WA

3d • $32 - $34

About The Position

The General Manager (GM) is responsible for leading the overall operations of their assigned shop, ensuring that it runs effectively, efficiently, and meets all company and brand standards. As a key leader, the GM creates a positive, safe work environment for the team, fostering the unique culture and community that Salt & Straw is known for. With a focus on driving shop performance, the GM drives operational excellence with a strong emphasis on the company’s mission, vision, and values. Through this leadership, the GM inspires the team to deliver exceptional guest experiences and consistently achieve high performance.

Requirements

• High school diploma/GED.
• 3+ years of experience in food service, fast-casual dining, or hospitality-focused industry.
• 2+ years of progressive experience as a leader/manager/supervisor.
• 1+ years of experience in leading a team of 10+ Team Members in a high-volume retail/restaurant establishment.
• Valid Manager Food Safety Certification (required within 30 days of the start of employment or based on state or local requirement).
• Desire to coach, mentor, motivate and manage Team Members with demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.
• Ability to work with people of all backgrounds and identities.
• Strong business acumen with a focus on sales growth, cost control, and profitability.
• Passionate about delivering outstanding guest experiences and leading a team with integrity.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively communicate and build rapport with individuals at various levels of the organization.
• Self-directed with organizational and problem-solving skills; ability to prioritize, work effectively and positively under pressure and amidst changing priorities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a hands-on approach.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills and the ability to bring Legendary Hospitality into all interactions with team, direct reports, and guest and vendor relationships.
• Proficiency in MS Office.
• Fluency in English.
• Ability to work evenings and late nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including staffing, payroll, scheduling, banking, supplies procurement, inventory management, and product quality assurance.
• Ensure all operational standards, safety, and health regulations are consistently met.
• Manage labor costs to align with budget expectations, optimizing for profitability.
• Recruit, hire, train, and retain a high-performing team including Assistant General Managers (AGMs), Shift Coordinators, and Scoopers.
• Provide coaching, performance feedback and documentation, and development opportunities to Team Members.
• Lead by example in delivering outstanding guest service, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and delighted.
• Facilitate timely, clear communication of company updates and initiatives to align and engage the team, while consistently representing the shop’s needs and feedback to other departments.
• Resolve guest complaints and issues promptly, using them as opportunities to improve service quality.
• Drive sales and financial performance through effective leadership, goal setting, and strategic decision-making.
• Engage with the local community to build strong relationships and drive brand awareness.
• Participate in and support community events, initiatives, and local marketing activations that align with Salt & Straw’s mission and values.
• Proactively identify, escalate, and follow up on repair and maintenance opportunities, collaborating with District Managers and Facilities leadership to ensure timely completion and effective management of equipment maintenance and failure processes.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, food safety standards, health and safety regulations, and local laws.
• Maintain the shop's cleanliness, organization, and maintenance to provide a safe and inviting environment for guests and Team Members.
• Taste/sample a scoop of ice cream daily (including, when possible, different flavors of ice cream, including flavors that might not be the Team Member’s personal preference), to be able to better communicate to customers why they might enjoy each flavor.
• Foster a positive and engaging work environment for direct reports and Team Members by ensuring ongoing open lines of communication, inspiring others through your words and actions, coaching for improvement and growth, and embracing Salt & Straw’s mission and core values.

Benefits

• Financial Flexibility: Competitive wages with annual performance reviews, merit increases, production bonuses up to 20% quarterly, optional earned wages access, and a 401(k) match with a 50% company match up to 1% of your salary after three months.
• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance starting the first of the month after hire, with additional benefits like FSAs, HSAs, accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance.
• Work-Life Balance: 40 hours of Paid Sick Time upfront each January, two consecutive days off weekly, approximately 2 weeks of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year (accrued at a rate of 1 hour for every 30 hours worked), 12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave, and holiday pay for 12 recognized holidays.
• Mental Health Support: Free 24/7 access to licensed mental health professionals for Team Members and their families.
• Perks & Discounts: 30% team discount, early access to new flavors, FIGO Pet Insurance, and exclusive team perks.
• Education & Financial Savings: Up to $1,800 annually for education reimbursement, commuter FSAs, and UHC Wellness Rewards up to $1,000.
• Inclusive Culture: A commitment to a supportive, inclusive environment that fosters growth and respect.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees