General Manager - Chef-Driven Italian Restaurant

General Manager – Upscale Italian RestaurantLocation: Apex, NC (On-Site)Company OverviewWe are partnering with a highly respected, locally owned restaurant group to identify an experienced General Manager for one of the Triangle's premier upscale Italian dining destinations. This chef-driven, scratch-kitchen concept is known for exceptional hospitality, outstanding cuisine, and a culture that values people as much as performance.Unlike many restaurant leadership roles, this opportunity offers an outstanding quality of life, a collaborative ownership team, and the chance to build a long-term career with a growing organization.Position OverviewWe're looking for a hands-on hospitality leader who thrives on creating memorable guest experiences while developing high-performing teams. This General Manager will partner closely with the Executive Chef to oversee all aspects of restaurant operations, including service excellence, financial performance, team development, and overall guest satisfaction.This is an ideal opportunity for a confident, entrepreneurial leader who enjoys autonomy, takes ownership of the business, and doesn't require heavy micromanagement. The successful candidate will be comfortable hitting the ground running while bringing fresh ideas, strong operational discipline, and a passion for hospitality.Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive base salary plus annual performance bonusOutstanding work-life balanceTwo weeks PTO$300 monthly health insurance stipendStructured training programLong-term career growth opportunities401(k) program plannedKey ResponsibilitiesLead all front-of-house operations while partnering closely with the Executive Chef.Deliver exceptional guest experiences through visible, hands-on leadership.Recruit, hire, coach, and develop managers and hourly team members.Drive financial performance through effective labor, inventory, and cost management.Maintain high standards for food quality, service execution, and hospitality.Foster a positive, accountable, guest-focused culture.Oversee scheduling, ordering, inventory, and daily operational execution.Support private dining, special events, and community engagement initiatives.Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and company operating standards.Continuously identify opportunities to improve operations while maintaining the restaurant's culture and reputation.QualificationsMinimum of two years of successful General Manager experience in a full-service restaurant.Upscale casual, polished casual, fine dining, or chef-driven restaurant experience preferred.Scratch kitchen experience strongly preferred.Stable employment history demonstrating long-term commitment.Proven success leading high-performing hospitality teams.Strong financial acumen, including P&L, labor, food cost, and inventory management.Excellent communication, coaching, and leadership skills.Self-starter with an ownership mentality and the ability to work independently.Passion for hospitality, guest engagement, and developing people.What We're Looking ForThe ideal candidate is someone who leads from the dining room rather than the office, builds strong relationships with guests and team members, and takes genuine pride in creating exceptional hospitality experiences. If you're seeking a long-term opportunity where your leadership, initiative, and operational expertise will be valued, we'd love to speak with you.