The Assistant General Manager (AGM) plays a pivotal role in overseeing daily operations and delivering an unparalleled dining experience that blends authenticity with modern, trendy flair. Located within the Event Center at the World Equestrian Center, this upscale Asian restaurant offers guests an innovative culinary journey, from expertly crafted sushi to meticulously curated sake offerings. The AGM will drive both guest satisfaction and operational excellence while ensuring the highest standards of service, presentation, and efficiency. Working closely with the General Manager and leadership team, the AGM will lead a team dedicated to delivering exceptional hospitality while fostering a warm, dynamic, and quality-driven atmosphere that aligns with the World Equestrian Center’s values of Quality, Class, and Distinction.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Guest Experience Leadership: Ensure a refined yet welcoming dining experience by delivering impeccable service, anticipating guest needs, and addressing concerns proactively.
• VIP & Special Guest Relations: Provide personalized service for high-profile guests, offering expert recommendations on sushi, sake pairings, and curated dining experiences.
• Operational Oversight: Supervise daily restaurant operations, ensuring excellence in service, food quality, and restaurant ambiance.
• Staff Training & Development: Recruit, train, and mentor front-of-house team members, fostering a culture of knowledge, professionalism, and hospitality.
• Scheduling & Labor Management: Support the General Manager in front-of-house schedules to optimize efficiency, control labor costs, and ensure proper coverage.
• Financial & Inventory Management: Monitor and manage operational expenses, food and beverage costs, and supply usage. Oversee ordering, stock levels, and rotation to maintain quality and minimize waste.
• Payroll & Compliance: Support the General Manager in payroll processing, adherence to labor laws, and compliance with all company policies and safety regulations.
• Event Planning & Private Dining: Assist with organizing exclusive sake tastings, seasonal events, and private dining experiences to enhance revenue and guest engagement.
• Menu Innovation & Collaboration: Work with the culinary team to contribute ideas for seasonal menu offerings, beverage pairings, and signature cocktails.
• Performance Evaluation: Set clear performance expectations, conduct evaluations, and provide ongoing coaching to maintain high service standards.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Enforce food safety, alcohol compliance, and sanitation protocols in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for operational enhancements, implement best practices, and drive overall efficiency.
• Flexibility & Availability: Be available for work outside of regular hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed to maintain operational excellence.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Deep understanding of upscale Asian cuisine, particularly sushi, sake, and specialty cocktails.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to delegate tasks efficiently while maintaining quality control.
• Knowledge of current food and beverage trends within the Asian dining sector.
• Proficiency in restaurant management software, POS systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Financial acumen, including experience managing budgets, labor costs, and inventory.
• Strong commitment to hospitality and guest satisfaction.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in food and beverage management, with 2 years in an upscale or fine dining Asian restaurant setting preferred.
• Previous experience in a high-volume, luxury dining environment preferred.
• ServSafe and Alcohol Compliance certifications required.
• Knowledge of Japanese cuisine and beverage service, including sake, preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, reach, bend, kneel, and lift heavy objects as part of daily operational duties.
• Ability to communicate clearly in both verbal and written English.
• Strong presence in the dining room, leading by example to ensure service excellence.

 About Us:

The World Equestrian Center is managed by Columbus Hospitality Management, a company committed to providing exceptional guest experiences and a positive work environment. We believe in fostering a work-life balance, offering professional growth opportunities, and maintaining a culture of excellence. We are a Drug-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). A background check is required as part of the hiring process.

 This job description serves as a general guide for the responsibilities and qualifications required for the role. It does not encompass all tasks the General Manager may be required to perform, as responsibilities may evolve to meet the needs of the business.