General Mgr

About the role

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on General Manager to lead the opening and ongoing operations of Canonita Lake Nona. The GM will be responsible for all front-of-house operations, financial performance, guest experience, and team leadership, working closely with the Executive Chef and Tavistock leadership to bring the brand to life and position the restaurant as a must-visit dining destination in Lake Nona West.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with Tavistock leadership and the Executive Chef to execute the pre-opening plan, including staffing, training, systems, and service standards.
• Recruit, hire, and onboard a high-performing FOH team (management, bartenders, servers, support) aligned with the Canonita culture and guest experience.
• Help define and implement service sequences, floor plans, and guest-flow strategies for a large indoor/outdoor, high-volume restaurant environment.
• Lead and participate in training programs to ensure consistent delivery of brand standards, hospitality, and technical service.
• Own daily FOH operations, including floor management, shift execution, reservations, and pacing in a busy, destination-driven setting.
• Champion a guest-first culture, actively engaging with guests, resolving issues, and driving repeat business and strong online reputation.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and bar leadership to execute promotions, events, and menu changes that reflect seasonal and local influences.
• Ensure Canonita delivers on its promise of scratch cuisine and a dynamic beverage program, with attention to speed, accuracy, and presentation.
• Full P&L responsibility for the restaurant, including revenue growth, labor management, COGS, controllables, and overall profitability.
• Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and weekly/monthly performance reviews; identify opportunities to improve efficiency and margins.
• Maintain tight inventory control and cash handling procedures in alignment with Tavistock policies.
• Build a strong leadership bench by coaching and developing FOH managers and supervisors for future growth opportunities within Tavistock.
• Foster a positive, inclusive work environment grounded in respect, accountability, and high performance.
• Lead by example on the floor, modeling hospitality, urgency, and composure in a high-energy setting.
• Partner with HR on performance management, recognition, succession planning, and retention strategies.
• Serve as the face of Canonita Lake Nona within the Lake Nona West district and broader community.
• Collaborate on local marketing, PR, and community engagement initiatives to drive awareness and traffic.
• Protect and grow the Canonita brand, ensuring alignment with Tavistock standards and long-term vision.

What we offer

• Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more).
• Opportunities for growth within Tavistock Restaurant Collection as Lake Nona and the broader Florida portfolio continue to expand.
• The chance to shape and lead a flagship opening in one of Orlando’s fastest-growing communities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive restaurant leadership experience, including at least 3 years as General Manager or equivalent in high-volume, full-service concepts.
• Experience opening a new restaurant or leading a major relaunch is strongly preferred.
• Proven success managing $5M+ annual revenue operations; exposure to lifestyle centers, destination dining, or resort environments is a plus.
• Strong business acumen, with demonstrated P&L management, budgeting, and KPI-driven decision making.
• Track record of building, developing, and retaining high-performing teams.
• Passion for Mexican cuisine and beverage, with enthusiasm for learning and storytelling around food, tequila, mezcal, and craft cocktails.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Comfortable working evenings, weekends, and holidays in line with restaurant demands.