Director of Operations

Director of Operations – Mercado Little SpainJosé Andrés Group (JAG), led by Chef José Andrés, is a hospitality company known for creating exceptional dining experiences through culinary innovation, outstanding hospitality, and a values-driven culture.Mercado Little Spain, located in Hudson Yards, is a vibrant culinary destination celebrating the food, drinks, culture, and hospitality of Spain. Bringing together restaurants, bars, kiosks, retail, events, and unique culinary experiences under one roof, Mercado Little Spain offers guests an immersive experience inspired by the mercados and culinary traditions of Spain.The Director of Operations is the senior operational leader responsible for the overall performance, culture, and guest experience of Mercado Little Spain. This role provides strategic and day-to-day leadership across Mercado operations, partnering closely with General Managers, Culinary Leadership, Events, Beverage, Marketing, Finance, People & Culture, and JAG senior leadership to drive exceptional business results. The Director of Operations is accountable for achieving financial and operational goals while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, food and beverage execution, team engagement, safety, and brand integrity.The ideal candidate is a highly experienced, people-focused hospitality leader with a proven track record managing complex, high-volume, multi-concept operations. They are equally comfortable analyzing a P&L, developing a General Manager, navigating a high-volume service, creating an annual business plan, and engaging directly with guests and team members on the floor.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide overall operational leadership and strategic direction for Mercado Little Spain.Oversee the performance and execution of restaurants, bars, kiosks, guest-facing operations, and other Mercado experiences.Establish clear operating priorities, standards, and expectations across the property.Maintain a highly visible presence throughout Mercado operations, particularly during peak business periods.Ensure consistent execution of JAG service, hospitality, cleanliness, and operational standards.Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, productivity, profitability, and the guest experience.Lead operational planning for seasonal peaks, holidays, special events, activations, and high-volume periods.Ensure appropriate systems, processes, tools, and resources are in place to support successful operations.Drive accountability and follow-through across the leadership team.RequirementsKnowledge, Skills and ExperienceMust have at least 5+ years of multi-unit or corporate dining management experience.Must have a firm understanding of food preparation and standards.Proven track record and success in restaurant openings and management of multiple units/stores.Entrepreneurial, energetic and passionate.Excellent supervisory and management skills.Knowledge and ability to develop business plans and financial budgets.Excellent verbal and written skills?Exceptional organizational skills.Good Communication and presentation skills.Knowledge of all facets of restaurant operation.Professional appearance and image.?Must be Serv Safe certified.?Must have a guest-orientated personality.?Must have a valid driver license and maintain a good driving record.Benefits :Competitive salary?Medical and life insurance?Paid holidays and vacation?Bonus PotentialWho we are:José Andrés Group restaurants span all over the globe including Miami, Las Vegas, Orlando, NYC, Chicago, Dubai, Bahamas, Los Angeles and of course Washington, DC. Since 1993, our restaurants reflect the authentic roots of each concept and showcase a passion for telling the stories of a culture through food. Apply now and join the industry leading José Andrés Group Team.José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer