Job Title: General Manager 

Location: Blue Duck Brewing Company, 79 Hurley Ave, Kingston, NY

Reports to: Owners 

Job Overview: We are seeking an experienced, upbeat, and proactive General Manager to join our dynamic brewery/restaurant team. As the first point of contact for our guests, and our Front of house coworkers, this position will help to create and maintain our company culture. This leadership role will oversee daily front-of-house operations, ensuring a seamless guest experience while managing staff effectively.

Key Responsibilities: 

Guest Experience Management: 

•  Lead by example to ensure each guest receives a memorable experience.

•  Oversee the guest seating and reservation system, ensuring timely seating while maintaining an efficient flow of guests. 

•  Monitor guest satisfaction through direct feedback, surveys, and observation.

•  Handle VIP and special requests, making guests feel valued and creating tailored experiences (e.g., special celebrations, private events). 

•  Address guest complaints.

•  Ensure the guest experience aligns with our brand's mission, values, and atmosphere.

Staff Supervision, Development, and Training:

•  Supervise, lead, and motivate front-of-house team members (hosts, servers, bartenders) ensuring that all staff members adhere to service standards, performance expectations, and company policies. 

•  Conduct daily pre-shift meetings to ensure all staff are informed about menu specials, promotions, guest expectations, and operational updates.

•  Hire, onboard, and train new front-of-house staff.

•  Continuously assess staff performance and provide constructive feedback to foster a culture of improvement, professionalism, and teamwork. 

•  Plan and lead regular training sessions to enhance knowledge about the brewery’s products, including beer styles, brewing processes, and food pairings, ensuring staff are knowledgeable and confident when interacting with guests. 

Operational Management: 

•  Monitor and ensure the effective use of the Point of Sale (POS) system for orders, payments, and guest interactions. 

•  Oversee the opening and closing duties, ensuring all side work is completed and the restaurant is set up for service. Develop SOPs for these tasks. 

•  Monitor front-of-house inventory (e.g., menus, glassware, utensils, napkins) and collaborate with the kitchen and bar teams to ensure all necessary supplies are stocked and ready.

•  Ensure all health, safety, and sanitation regulations are consistently followed throughout the front-of-house operations. 

•  Handle cash and credit transactions, and monitor guest checks for accuracy, ensuring compliance with company procedures for cash handling and tipping. 

Bar and Cocktail Program Management: 

•  Oversee the day-to-day operations of the bar. 

• Work closely with bartenders to ensure that cocktails are prepared according to standard recipes.

•  Collaborate with the brewing team to develop and maintain an innovative, seasonal cocktail program that aligns with the brewery’s beer offerings.  

•  Oversee the bar inventory, minimizing waste and ensuring cost efficiency. 

•  Ensure all alcohol service complies with legal regulations and company policies, promoting responsible drinking at all times. 

•  Lead the team in maintaining a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness in the bar area, including proper glassware handling and sanitation.

Scheduling, Labor Management, and Financial Responsibility: 

•  Create and manage weekly staff schedules, ensuring appropriate coverage for peak times, events, and holidays while controlling labor costs.

• Monitor staff attendance and punctuality, addressing any issues promptly and providing guidance as needed. 

• Maintain control over the front-of-house budget, ensuring that labor, inventory, and other operational costs align with financial goals. 

•  Analyze daily sales reports and operational data to identify trends, areas for improvement, and potential issues, providing actionable feedback to improve performance. 

Event and Promotions Management: 

•  Lead and coordinate special events, private parties, tastings, and brewery tours, ensuring all details are executed flawlessly, from guest arrival to departure

• Ensure staff are well-prepared and equipped to handle the specific needs of private events, including customized menu options, guest preferences, and unique requests. 

• Collaborate with the marketing team to implement promotional strategies and create buzz for events, new beer releases, or seasonal menu changes. 

Qualifications: 

● 5+ years of experience in a management or supervisory role in a fast-paced restaurant, brewery, or hospitality environment. 

● Exceptional leadership skills with a proven ability to inspire, develop, and lead a team to meet and exceed guest expectations. 

● Strong understanding of front-of-house operations, including guest service protocols, POS systems, inventory management, and event coordination. 

● Knowledge of craft beer, beer styles, and brewing processes preferred. 

● Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required. . 

Compensation: 

• Salary based on experience

• Paid time off

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Performance based incentives

• Life Insurance and 401K

If you're passionate about leading a team and delivering exceptional guest experiences in a unique brewery/restaurant setting, we’d love to have you join our team! 

To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for this role to Info@blueduckbrewing.com.