THE OPTIMIST GENERAL MANAGER – UP TO $120K/yr. + BONUS (Germantown)

About the role

The Optimist is seeking an accomplished General Manager to lead all aspects of restaurant operations. You will captain our ship by overseeing the team in an open, positive, and approachable manner, monitoring the restaurant in its entirety, controlling reservations and seating, and managing menu changes. Responsibilities include hiring, training, and developing all staff, ensuring exceptional guest service, and fostering an educational and positive work environment. The General Manager leads daily meetings and proactively anticipates guests' needs to ensure total satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of restaurant operations with a focus on team development and guest satisfaction.
• Monitor and manage the restaurant, including reservations, seating, and menu updates.
• Hire, train, and develop staff to maintain high service standards.
• Anticipate and address guest needs proactively to ensure a seamless dining experience.
• Conduct daily team meetings to foster communication and a positive work environment.
• Oversee service performance and maintain operational excellence.

Requirements

• 10 years of progressive restaurant experience, with at least 5 years in senior management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary: $85,000 – $120,000/year (DOE) plus a generous quarterly bonus program.
• Full benefit eligibility after 30 days of employment, including Major Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• Paid Time Off, Childbirth Recovery Leave, and Parental Leave for work-life balance.
• Significant long-term retention bonuses.
• Time off on most major holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
• 50% discount at all Rocket Farm Restaurants (Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville, Houston, Raleigh, and Winter Park).
• Access to Rocket Farm University: specialized leadership classes and personalized career advancement support.
• Employee-led Mentorship programs, Advisory Council, and Safety Committee.

About the company

At Rocket Farm Restaurants, our core philosophy is "We serve the person who is serving the guest." Our culture prioritizes treating and serving one another in the kitchen with dignity, respect, and care—mirroring how we serve our guests in the dining room. The Optimist, located in Nashville’s Germantown neighborhood, offers a menu of casual, wood-fired fare with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, transporting guests to a coastal experience.