Position Summary

The Tryst Trading Company Food Group, a locally owned DC-based hospitality group established in 1998, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Director of Operations (DO) to lead all five restaurant locations. The Director of Operations is a strategic leader responsible for providing oversight, guidance, and support to management teams, ensuring operational excellence, and fostering a culture that prioritizes meaningful connections with guests and staff.

The ideal candidate is a proven leader who empowers teams through effective delegation, motivates through positive reinforcement, mentors by example, and holds staff accountable in a firm but fair manner. They are personable, self-driven, highly organized, excellent communicators, and aligned with the company’s Core Values: unpretentious, fun at heart, passionate, mindful in the moment, and demonstrating an all-for-one-and-one-for-all attitude.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Management
   • Lead and support store management teams and staff across all locations.
   • Ensure compliance with company policies, SOPs, and all applicable laws and regulatory requirements.
   • Foster a clean, safe, and positive work environment.
   • Monitor and respond to guest feedback, ensuring exceptional service standards.
   • Recruit, retain, and develop high-performing staff in partnership with HR.
   • Oversee staff training, performance evaluations, and professional development initiatives.
2. Operations & Oversight
   • Supervise F&B operations including product mix selection, menu development and implementation, inventory management and costing, quality control, and food safety.
   • Oversee facilities, maintenance, and equipment operations.
   • Ensure strict adherence to financial controls and cash handling procedures.
   • Identify operational inefficiencies and implement corrective actions.
   • Monitor prime costs and key operating expenses while identifying opportunities to increase revenue.
   • Collaborate with Marketing Consultant on promotions, events, and marketing initiatives.
   • Build and maintain strong community engagement across all locations.
3. Strategic & Administrative Functions
   • Perform administrative duties and reporting functions.
   • Conduct financial analysis and work with CFO on budgeting and forecasting.
   • Troubleshoot operational challenges and respond to emergencies.
   • Perform or assist with special projects and additional duties as needed.
   • Partner with CEO to develop and implement growth strategies for the company.

Qualifications

• 2+ years upper management experience in a full-service restaurant or Degree in Hospitality Management with 1+ years of upper restaurant management experience.
• Experience in multi-unit operations is strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of hospitality industry regulations and best practices.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proven leadership, people management, and active listening skills.
• Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and detail-oriented.
• Proficiency in computer skills and administrative POS systems (knowledge of Toast and Restaurant365 a plus).
• Spanish proficiency (written and oral) is a plus but not required.
• Food Handler and ABRA license required.
• Availability to work weekends, evenings, and some holidays; must be on call for emergencies.
• Alignment with Core Values: unpretentious, fun at heart, passionate, mindful in the moment, and demonstrating an all-for-one-and-one-for-all attitude.

Benefits

• Employer-sponsored Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Vacation
• 401(k)
• Transportation allowances
• Dining perks
• Growth and advancement opportunities within the organization

Equal Employment Opportunity Tryst Trading Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, disability, age, genetic information, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws. Our policies reflect a commitment to fair employment practices and the elimination of discriminatory practices.