General Manager - JFK Airport Lounge

General Manager (Restaurant / Airport Lounge)

JFK Airport - New Terminal One

Plaza Premium Group

Plaza Premium Group is the global leader in airport lounges and hospitality! With over 25 years of experience, we are redefining travel by creating seamless, world-class airport experiences in over 350 locations worldwide. From award-winning lounges to premium airport services, we take pride in delivering exceptional comfort, convenience, and care to travelers. As a dynamic and fast-growing company, we offer exciting career opportunities, a diverse and inclusive workplace, and the chance to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of travel. If you're passionate about hospitality and thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment, we’d love to have you on board!

The Lounge General Manager leads all aspects of lounge operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences while upholding corporate policies, safety standards, and service excellence. This role combines operational leadership with hands-on service, including bartender, concierge, and customer-facing duties. The GM is accountable for cost efficiency, team performance, and overall lounge profitability.

Lounge Operations

• Oversee day-to-day lounge operations to deliver a seamless and welcoming customer experience.
• Drive operational goals by prioritizing, organizing, and meeting deadlines for all projects and objectives.
• Respond swiftly to customer complaints and inquiries, performing root cause analysis to implement corrective and preventive measures.
• Attend operations meetings and provide actionable updates and solutions.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels to maximize productivity and profitability.
• Partner with sales teams on lounge access and revenue generation.
• Manage financial performance in line with budgets and targets.
• Oversee procurement and inventory management to maintain required stock levels.
• Identify growth opportunities within the airport, including potential new lounges or business ventures.

Quality & Brand Standards

• Ensure every guest interaction reflects the highest service standards and brand values.
• Maintain compliance with operational manuals and corporate procedures.
• Conduct regular internal audits (e-LSQ) to monitor and elevate service quality.

People Leadership

• Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching for team members.
• Ensure staff are well-trained, equipped, and empowered to excel in their roles.
• Establish performance metrics, routines, and tools to foster a culture of quality, safety, engagement, and productivity.

Requirements

• Minimum 10 years’ hospitality experience (hotel, resort, private club, or airport lounge), including at least 5 years in a management role, ideally in F&B.
• Background in luxury hospitality or premium airport lounges strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to work under pressure with excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team motivation skills.
• Experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
• Service-driven with meticulous attention to detail and a hands-on approach.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.
• Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Willingness to travel as required (particularly during new lounge development).
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship; relocation not available.
• Successful completion of pre-employment screening and background check required.