Operations Manager - Puff 'n Stuff - Jacksonville, FL

The primary responsibility of the Operations Manager is to provide effective leadership of the Event Operations Departments including service, kitchen, and warehouse. This person will provide direction and guidance to departmental leaders and serve as a resource for the continued growth of the Puff n Stuff business and brand.

Primary Job Functions:

• Ensure that the business is operated to the highest standards in line with the mission statement and values
• Responsible for the day-to-day operation of the service and warehouse teams while working with other department leaders
• Ensuring that all departments operate within agreed budgets and achieve agreed targets 
• Implement systems for reviewing all operating costs to ensure that they are consistently in line with focused revenue in conjunction with the Financial Controller
• Address service issues and develop standards in line with customer needs and brand values
• Adding consistent value to operating activities of the organization, including Inventory control methods, performance matrix development and coaching, interdepartmental communications, and support
• Ensure each department operates in compliance with all legal requirements
• Ensure HR procedures are followed in each department
• Ensure that all agreed control procedures are followed through in each department
• Conduct employee performance reviews for all direct reports on a annual basis
• Align goals with business/brand objectives and values
• Comply with statutory and legal requirements for Health and Safety, Fire, Licensing and Food Handling and ensure that yourself and all members of the team are aware of and working in accordance with these requirements
• Hands-on management
• Ability to manage scheduling utilizing Nowsta to meet business needs and budgets
• Work with sales department to update Special Event Orders as needed to reflect adjustments to events
• Confer with kitchen, sales, warehouse, and service departments in the pre-planning meetings to review event requirements
• Keep abreast of the large event schedule
• Booking, selecting, and costing menu items, contracts, temporary labor, and equipment
• Recruit for various positions needed
• Periodic support at off-premise events
• Maintain positive relationships with all clients and employees
• Ensure timely response to all inquiries and/or service needs
• Create and maintain process for action and communication of initiatives
• Complete focus on customer service and satisfaction, maintaining a positive and energetic attitude while juggling the requests of high profile and demanding clientele
• Must effectively plan and communicate to all departments both the expressed and implied needs of the customer for seamless execution of events
• Strive to make constant improvements in the event operation in presentation and cost
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications: 

• 5 years of experience in the hospitality industry desired
• 2 years in leadership
• Strong leadership and motivational skills
• Has in-depth knowledge of how catering events, buffet service, high-end cocktail, plated table service operate
• Experience managing, preparing, and administering financial reports and budgets
• Associates Degree is required in Hospitality or Culinary, BA/BS Preferred
• Ability to supervise and design food prep, service, logistics, and sanitation methodologies 
• Ability to Multi-task and anticipate at a high level to bridge and evolve the entire operation
• Flexibility in schedule which will include evenings and weekends
• Serv Safe Certified
• Must have a valid clean driving license