Director of Operations – Independent Restaurant Group

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We are seeking a visionary Director of Operations to lead a dynamic group of acclaimed, chef-driven restaurants in Nashville, TN. This role offers the opportunity to oversee three unique concepts with a combined revenue of over $8.5M annually. The ideal candidate is hands-on, business-savvy, and passionate about thoughtful hospitality, sustainability, and building exceptional teams.

Director of Operations – What You’ll Oversee:

• A high-volume flagship concept doing $4M+ annually
• Two fast-casual brands with loyal local followings
• Monthly P&L reviews, budget creation, and operational audits
• Partnership with external consultants and a lean leadership team

Director of Operations – Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop General Managers and their teams with a culture-first mindset
• Own financial performance: manage COS, labor, and expense control
• Streamline systems and support restaurant openings
• Conduct monthly budget and performance reviews
• Build and maintain vendor relationships and negotiate contracts
• Ensure training, compliance, and people-first HR practices
• Support communication across departments and strengthen team culture

Director of Operations – What We’re Looking For:

• 5+ years in a multi-unit leadership role (independent or chef-driven concepts preferred)
• Proven success overseeing $8M+ in annual revenue
• Experience opening restaurants and implementing scalable systems
• Strong financial acumen and familiarity with monthly P&L management
• HR knowledge and expertise fostering a healthy team culture
• A genuine passion for food, sustainability, and local sourcing
• Industry-minded leader who keeps up with James Beard, Michelin, and Eater-level trends
• Integrity, accountability, and ability to thrive in an evolving, founder-led environment

Director of Operations Compensation & Benefits:

• Base salary $130,000–$140,000
• Performance-based bonus
• Relocation assistance
• Health benefits
• Generous PTO and flexible scheduling
• Long-term growth opportunity in a brand with strong values and reputation

Relocation assistance is available. Open to candidates with NRO and multi-unit experience nationwide.

If you are a hospitality leader ready to make a lasting impact while supporting thoughtful, local, and health-conscious dining experiences—we’d love to hear from you.

At Goodwin Recruiting, we are committed to our core values and providing world class customer service. We are committed to helping our clients navigate and comply with the complex and ever-changing labor laws as well as help ensure that in every hiring decision, internally and with our client partners, that all viable candidates are considered, and the most qualified candidate is offered the role. We evaluate the knowledge, skills, and abilities that meet the requirements of the position and aim to open doors and change lives. We value all people, understanding that uniqueness and diversity foster a stronger team that is innovative and brings varying perspectives to the table. We put our money where our mouth is and are proud of our efforts to identify a broad slate of candidates, with many hiring success stories to share.

JOB ID: 158399

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Emily Lauro

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