Assistant Area Manager

Position Summary

A growing Japanese restaurant company is seeking an experienced Assistant Area Manager to support the operations and performance of multiple restaurant locations.

This position is responsible for supporting restaurant operations, P&L performance, facility management, marketing, inventory and food cost control, and the development of Store Managers.

The ideal candidate has strong multi-unit restaurant management experience and professional experience working in a Japanese restaurant environment.

Key Responsibilities

Multi-Unit Restaurant Operations

• Support the overall performance and operations of multiple restaurant locations
• Provide guidance and leadership to Store Managers
• Ensure high standards of guest service and restaurant operations
• Monitor labor scheduling, inventory management, food costs, and restaurant P&L
• Review operational reports to identify issues and opportunities for improvement
• Work with senior management to develop and implement operational solutions
• Ensure company operational plans and standards are properly implemented across assigned locations

Financial & Performance Management

• Support management of Area P&L
• Track expenses against annual budgets
• Analyze variances and recommend corrective actions
• Monitor food costs, labor costs, inventory, and other operating expenses
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and profitability

Store Manager Development

• Coach and develop Store Managers
• Establish performance and professional development goals
• Support Store Managers with recruiting, employee development, performance management, and retention
• Hire, train, and develop Store Managers
• Support succession planning for future management needs
• Address performance issues and provide ongoing coaching
• Help Store Managers resolve employee relations and operational issues

Strategic Planning & Marketing

• Support area-level strategic and operational planning
• Develop short-term initiatives to increase sales and transactions
• Assist with local restaurant marketing strategies
• Communicate company objectives to Store Managers
• Align restaurant-level goals with broader business objectives

Compliance

• Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures
• Support safety, security, cash handling, and loss-prevention standards
• Conduct regular compliance and operational audits
• Maintain high ethical and professional standards
• Escalate irregular operational issues to senior management as appropriate

Qualifications

Required

• Professional experience working in a Japanese restaurant
• 3+ years of Area Management experience in the restaurant industry
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and professional experience
• Strong multi-unit restaurant operations experience
• Experience managing and developing Store Managers
• Knowledge of restaurant P&L, labor management, inventory, and food cost control
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to travel frequently between restaurant locations

Work Environment & Travel

• Restaurant and office work environment
• Frequent local travel
• Occasional domestic overnight travel
• No international travel expected
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.