Food and Beverage, Director Country Club of Decatur
Position Overview
The Country Club of Decatur is seeking a dynamic, visible and service-oriented Food & Beverage Director to lead all front-of-house food and beverage operations throughout the Club. This position is responsible for ensuring exceptional member and guest experiences across all dining outlets, banquet operations, Club events, pool operations and beverage programming. The Food and Beverage Director reports to the General Manager.
Key Responsibilities
Food & Beverage Operations Leadership
Direct oversight of all dining outlets, banquet operations, snack shop, carry-out services, Club events and beverage programs.
Ensuring consistent execution of exceptional service standards throughout all food and beverage operations.
Leading daily operations with a highly visible and engaged management presence.
Maintaining a culture focused on hospitality, professionalism, accountability and teamwork.
Monitoring member satisfaction and continuously identifying opportunities to enhance the overall member experience.
Working closely with the Executive Chef to ensure strong collaboration between front- and back-of-house operations.
Participating in daily operational planning and service execution.
Ensuring all areas consistently reflect the standards of a premier private club environment.
Member Experience & Service Standards
Establishing and maintaining elevated service standards across all dining experiences.
Greeting members and guests regularly and remaining visible throughout service periods.
Personally handling member feedback, concerns and service recovery situations in a professional and timely manner.
Conducting regular service inspections and training exercises to ensure consistency and accountability.
Creating a warm, welcoming and member-focused culture throughout the operation.
Assisting with the planning and execution of club events, holiday programming, wine dinners and social functions.
Collaborating with Club leadership to enhance member engagement and dining participation.
Financial Management & Budget Oversight
Developing and managing operating budgets for all food and beverage outlets.
Monitoring sales, expenses, labor costs and profitability to achieve budget goals.
Working closely with the General Manager and Finance Committee to maintain strong financial performance.
Implementing and maintaining effective cost control procedures and operational standards.
Assisting with forecasting, budgeting and long-range operational planning.
Monitoring purchasing, ordering and receiving procedures to ensure quality, pricing and inventory accuracy.
Evaluating product offerings and researching opportunities to improve profitability and member satisfaction.
Maintaining accurate departmental documentation, reports and operational records.
Ensuring labor scheduling aligns with business demands while controlling overtime and staffing inefficiencies.
Team Leadership & Staff Development
Recruiting, hiring, training, mentoring and supervising food and beverage staff.
Developing onboarding and ongoing training programs for managers, servers, bartenders, banquet staff, food runners and support staff.
Creating a positive and professional work environment focused on accountability and growth.
Establishing clear service expectations and operational standards for all team members.
Conducting regular coaching, feedback sessions and performance evaluations.
Developing staffing plans and organizational structures to support operational excellence.
Leading by example with professionalism, visibility and strong hospitality leadership.
Supporting employee engagement and retention through communication and team development.
Beverage Program & Event Operations
Assisting in the development of wine lists and beverage promotions.
Working alongside the Executive Chef to create pairing dinners and specialty culinary events.
Managing beverage service standards and operational consistency.
Planning and executing Club events, banquet functions and member programming.
Supporting marketing and promotional efforts for dining and events.
Developing creative ways to increase member participation and event attendance.
Monitoring trends in hospitality, dining and member programming to keep offerings fresh and engaging.
Sanitation, Safety & Compliance
Ensuring compliance with all local, state and federal regulations related to food and beverage operations.
Monitoring sanitation, cleanliness, safety and preventative maintenance procedures throughout all operational areas.
Enforcing responsible alcohol service standards and applicable liquor laws.
Maintaining BASSET and Illinois Food Service Manager compliance standards.
Ensuring all standard operating procedures are consistently followed by staff.
Supporting preventative maintenance and operational upkeep throughout dining and service areas.
Promoting safe work environments and proper operational procedures.
Leadership Collaboration & Club Culture
Serving as a key member of the leadership team and contributing positively to the overall culture and success of the Club.
Collaborating closely with the General Manager, Executive Chef and department heads.
Participating in leadership meetings, planning discussions and Club initiatives.
Supporting Club-wide goals and strategic objectives.
Building strong relationships with members, staff, vendors and the Board when appropriate.
Maintaining a visible, approachable and member-focused leadership style.
Representing the Club professionally within the community and industry.
Staying current with hospitality, Food and Beverage and private club trends through continuing education and industry involvement.
Professional Experience & Qualifications
Food & Beverage Director, Assistant General Manager or senior hospitality leadership experience
Private club, resort, luxury hotel or upscale hospitality experience preferred
Strong banquet and event management experience
Experience managing financial performance and operational budgets
Proven leadership and team development skills
Strong communication and organizational abilities
BASSET Certification
Illinois Food Service Manager Certification
CMAA involvement or continuing education preferred
Bachelor’s Degree preferred or equivalent hospitality experience
Competitive Compensation
Competitive Base Salary
Performance Bonus Potential
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
401(k) with Club Match
Paid Vacation
Employee Discounts
Relocation Assistance