Assistant Restaurant Manager (Ocala)

Job Summary:

The World Equestrian Center – Ocala is seeking a polished and driven Assistant General Manager to support the opening and daily operations of White Willow ; our refined Asian dining concept located within the prestigious Equestrian Manor. This role is ideal for a hospitality professional with a passion for luxury service, a strong operational background, and a collaborative leadership style.

As the Assistant General Manager, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the General Manager, guiding the front-of-house team, and ensuring that every guest experience reflects the World Equestrian Center’s core values of Quality, Class, and Distinction .

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist in overseeing daily operations, ensuring seamless service and a consistently elevated guest experience.
• Lead by example on the floor, setting the tone for warm, attentive, and personalized hospitality.
• Support the General Manager in managing labor, food and beverage costs, and supply budgets.
• Create and maintain front-of-house schedules that align with business needs and labor compliance.
• Ensure timely and accurate payroll processing for front-of-house staff.
• Participate in recruitment, onboarding, and training of team members, fostering a culture of excellence and growth.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering to support efficient operations and cost control.
• Uphold rigorous standards of cleanliness, safety, and sanitation in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
• Assist in planning and executing private dining experiences, seasonal events, and holiday celebrations.
• Ensure staff are trained in food safety, alcohol service, and company policies.
• Collaborate with culinary leadership to support menu rollouts and beverage program enhancements.
• Engage with guests, resolve concerns with professionalism, and implement feedback-driven improvements.
• Monitor performance metrics and contribute to strategies that enhance guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
• Maintain a strong presence during evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events to ensure flawless execution.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the associate occupying this position. Associates will be required to perform any other job-related duties assigned by their supervisor. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an at will employment relationship.

Physical Requirements:

These physical demands represent the physical requirements necessary for an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation can be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions described in this position.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift as needed during daily operations.
• Strong presence on the floor to uphold service standards and team engagement.
• Clear and effective communication in both verbal and written formats.

Qualifications, Education, Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in upscale restaurant management or supervisory roles.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Deep understanding of luxury hospitality and guest-centric service.
• Financial literacy and experience supporting budget management.
• Proficiency in POS systems, Microsoft Office, and team communication platforms.
• ServSafe and Alcohol Compliance Certifications required.
• Experience in private dining and event coordination preferred.

The World Equestrian Center is managed by Columbus Hospitality Management ; a company committed to providing quality service and memorable guest experiences in a positive and welcoming work environment. We are focused on supporting the needs of our team through our commitment to the family/work life balance and by providing development opportunities.

We are proud to be a Drug Free Workplace/EOE. All applicants will be required to submit to a background check prior to employment.