Restaurant General Manager

First Watch•Brentwood, TN

About The Position

First Watch Managers are passionate about serving others and leading teams in a restaurant environment. Managers coach and develop team members to deliver an exceptional breakfast, brunch, or lunch experience. The role oversees both kitchen operations and the overall dining experience, rather than separating front- and back-of-house management. The company emphasizes a people-first culture, employee empowerment, high standards, and a chef-curated menu. The position has no night shifts and regularly requires 50–55 hours of work per week.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Minimum three years of experience in a service-oriented hospitality industry, such as a hotel, resort, restaurant, retail business, or entertainment venue; experience is preferred.
Completion of the Culinary and Food Expert (CAFÉ) training program.
Valid driver’s license and ability to drive for company business as required.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Ability to manage, lead, coach, teach, and train others in management responsibilities, culinary duties, and host and service duties.
Knowledge of accounting and financial management principles, with a focus on budgeting and forecasting revenue goals and objectives.
Human resources management skills in employee relations, recruiting, retention, and employee recognition.
Ability to supervise employees in roles ranging from entry level to mid-level management.
Ability to work without supervision and prioritize restaurant operations.
Ability to make difficult and quick decisions.
Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent computer skills, particularly with MS operating systems.
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong communication, presentation, and writing skills, and ability to communicate effectively with all levels of management.
Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, multitask, and prioritize effectively.
Ability to manage teams and work effectively as part of a team.
Passion for providing excellent service and quality.
Ability to frequently stand, walk, view computer monitors, give and receive oral communication, bend, squat, reach above shoulder level, and discern color.
Ability to regularly lift or carry up to 20 pounds and occasionally lift or carry up to 40 pounds.
Ability to frequently perform repetitive simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing, and pulling.
Ability to tolerate temporary exposure to extreme temperatures and temperature changes.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree, preferably with a concentration in food and beverage, business, marketing, or management.

Responsibilities

Learn and support the You First culture and core values.
Supervise daily restaurant operations and ensure they run according to plan and meet high standards.
Ensure recipes are followed and uphold food quality standards.
Understand restaurant sales and traffic goals and work to exceed them.
Coach and observe implementation of the First Watch Five Steps of Service at every table.
Understand and put the company’s 10 Commandments into action.
Respond urgently to customer and employee concerns.
Take ownership of repair and maintenance issues and communicate them promptly.
Maintain food safety certification and identify and coach safe food-handling practices.
Scout and interview candidates to join the team.
Protect company assets, including computers, point-of-sale systems, security systems, and equipment.
Understand the key responsibilities of every restaurant position.
Stop inappropriate behavior immediately and investigate as needed.
Train, coach, and develop team members daily.
Recognize outstanding employee performance.
Account for daily revenues and deposits.
Complete administrative duties and submit required paperwork on time.

Benefits

No night shifts.
Career growth opportunities.
24/7 Employee Assistance Program.
401(k) Retirement Savings Program, subject to eligibility requirements.
Quarterly bonus based on restaurant performance for eligible Restaurant Operations Managers.
Life insurance.
Short-term disability.
Long-term disability.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Health insurance.
Backup child and elder care through Bright Horizon.
Supplemental accident, critical illness, and indemnity insurance.
Meal discount.
Complimentary premium access to the Calm app and five gift subscriptions.
Unlimited medical and behavioral telemedicine through Cirrus MD.
Tuition reimbursement and a high school diploma program.
Perks at Work discounts on travel, fitness, automotive purchases, event tickets, and more.
Childcare discount program.
Paid time off (PTO), subject to enrollment and eligibility timing.