Director, Food & Beverage

Job Description

Food and Beverage Manager | The Blackstone, Autograph Collection

The Tone:
This is a full-time role at The Blackstone, Autograph Collection, located in Chicago, IL. Vinayaka Hospitality (VH) owns and operates this iconic historic hotel, which hosts distinguished guests and offers a unique blend of timeless character and modern sophistication. This role is essential for leading the Food & Beverage department, driving high standards of quality and service, and maximizing profitability to support the continued growth of the property and its people.

The TL;DR
• Role: Full Time
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person, Chicago, IL
• Team: Reports to the Director of Food & Beverage or General Manager
• Mission: Maximize profits by maintaining high standards of food and beverage quality, service, and merchandising within the hotel.
• Tech Stack: Microsoft Word, Excel, computer accounting programs, moderately complex computer system

What You’ll Actually Do
• Lead & Direct: Plan and direct the Food and Beverage Department’s administration and operations to meet daily needs and maintain high standards.
• Financial Management: Implement effective control over food, beverage, and labor costs to maximize profits and achieve predetermined objectives.
• Menu & Marketing: Collaborate with culinary and outlet teams to create attractive and merchandising menus, and recommend new operating policies based on customer acceptance and market changes.
• Team Development: Continuously evaluate employee performance, and plan and administer training programs for staff development and career advancement.
• Operational Oversight: Develop necessary operating tools like budgeting, forecasting, purchase specifications, and job descriptions, while overseeing departmental compliance with employment laws.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Extensive knowledge of Food and Beverage operations, hotel management principles, budgeting, cost control, and meeting room/banquet setup details.
• Experience: Proven ability to manage, supervise, train, and motivate multiple levels of managers and employees, along with implementing effective cost controls and developing operational strategies.
• Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, experience with computer accounting programs, excellent interpersonal and sales-related skills, and exceptional organizational and supervisory abilities.