Front of house manager

Front of House Manager

Waters Edge Winery & Bistro - Midlothian, VA Full-Time | Reports to: General Manager

About Waters Edge Winery & Bistro


Waters Edge Winery & Bistro is an exciting new urban winery concept dedicated to creating an amazing guest experience through premium wines supported by a casual but elevated menu. We're seeking a passionate and experienced Kitchen Manager to lead our culinary team and help build a dynamic, guest-focused kitchen culture in our brand new venue. We hope to open the new venue around Halloween 2025 with some launch events at local outside venues prior to launch.

Position Overview


The Front of House (FOH) Manager is responsible for the leadership, team development, and operational success of the FOH team at Waters Edge Winery & Bistro. This role ensures that all guest-facing areas operate efficiently and uphold the standards of hospitality, quality, and brand identity that define the Waters Edge experience.


Success in this role is defined by:


- Delivering consistently exceptional guest service that drives repeat business and brand loyalty


- Building and maintaining a high-performing, engaged FOH team


- Executing seamless and memorable in-house dining and private events


- Supporting operational leadership in service, training, and guest satisfaction


Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Management
• Hire, onboard, and retain a fully staffed FOH team with low turnover and high engagement
• Oversee daily FOH operations, ensuring readiness before opening and during service peaks
• Implement ongoing training programs in service standards, hospitality, and wine knowledge
• Lead by example to create a team-oriented, accountable culture
• Maintain documentation of staff performance concerns and conduct performance conversations as required
• Create and manage FOH scheduling to meet labor and service demands efficiently
• Support staff coordination for packaging and shipping wine club and e-commerce orders
• Monitor and drive sales goals including event revenue and wine club membership acquisition


Operational Excellence
• Ensure all FOH areas (dining room, bar, patio, private event spaces) are clean, welcoming, and guest-ready
• Manage inventory of service supplies, smallwares, and perishables; execute timely reorders
• Oversee proper setup and breakdown of all FOH service stations
• Maintain service standards for personal appearance, uniforms, and cleanliness
• Serve as a point of escalation for guest concerns, resolving issues diplomatically and professionally
• Administer and troubleshoot POS systems (Orderport), including register open/close and reporting
• Ensure legal compliance and best practices in alcohol service and consumption (ServSafe principles)
• Adjust environmental factors (music, lighting, HVAC) to maintain a comfortable guest atmosphere
• Maintain and update FOH operational procedures and policy documentation


Event & Private Dining Coordination
• Collaborate with Events Coordinator and Kitchen Manager to plan and execute private events and winery functions
• Provide on-site leadership during events to ensure smooth service and guest satisfaction
• Assist with event planning logistics as needed


Who You Are
• Passionate about food, wine, and guest experience
• Effective team leadership through clear communication, coaching, and accountability
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a calm demeanor under pressure
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a dynamic, high-volume environment
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs
• A team-first attitude and willingness to support wherever needed


Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or related field preferred; equivalent experience accepted
• Minimum 2 years of FOH restaurant or hospitality management experience required
• Knowledge of wine varietals, regions, and wine service standards strongly preferred
• Proficient in POS systems and basic Office tools; familiarity with Orderport is a plus
• ServSafe Manager Certification preferred (training available)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills


Physical Requirements
• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 60 lbs
• Requires fine motor skills, reaching, grasping, bending, and repetitive movement
• Visual and auditory acuity for interacting with staff, vendors, and guests

Waters Edge Winery & Bistro is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its team. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment for all employees and guests.

Waters Edge Winery Midlothian is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status