Job Description
Job Description
Lead with Impact | Build Winning Teams | Drive Success
Position : General Manager
Location : Buffalo, NY
Status : Full-Time, Exempt
Compensation : $70,000–$80,000 + Bonus Plan
Benefits : Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Paid Time Off, and more
About the Opportunity
We're seeking an exceptional General Manager to lead our established Applebee's restaurant in Buffalo, NY. This is an opportunity to take full ownership of a thriving full-service restaurant, build a high-performing team, and create memorable guest experiences that keep our community coming back.
As General Manager, you'll lead with confidence and accountability—overseeing all aspects of restaurant operations from front-of-house to back-of-house. You'll drive business results, develop future leaders, and create a culture where your team thrives. This is your restaurant to run.
What You'll Do
Operational Leadership
- Own all aspects of daily restaurant operations including opening, service periods, and closing procedures
- Ensure consistent execution of food quality, service standards, and brand specifications
- Manage inventory control, food and labor costs, and vendor relationships
- Implement and maintain health, safety, and sanitation standards in compliance with all regulations
- Oversee cash handling procedures, financial reporting, and daily reconciliation
- Maintain facility standards ensuring the restaurant is clean, welcoming, and well-maintained
Financial Management & Business Growth
Own P&L responsibility and drive profitability through strategic cost managementAnalyze sales trends, labor metrics, and financial reports to make data-driven decisionsDevelop and execute strategies to increase sales, guest counts, and average checkControl food and labor costs while maintaining quality and service standardsManage budgets and forecast needs to optimize financial performanceIdentify opportunities for revenue growth including catering, promotions, and community engagementTeam Leadership & Development
Recruit, hire, onboard, and train management team and hourly staffCreate staffing schedules that optimize labor efficiency and service coverageDevelop and mentor Assistant Managers and shift leaders to build a strong leadership pipelineConduct performance evaluations and provide coaching for professional growthBuild a positive, inclusive culture that motivates and engages the entire teamLead by example with hands-on involvement during peak service periodsAddress performance issues promptly and conduct disciplinary actions when necessaryGuest Experience
Ensure every guest receives outstanding hospitality and leaves satisfiedBuild relationships with regular guests and create loyalty within the communityHandle guest complaints professionally and turn challenges into opportunitiesMonitor guest feedback and implement improvements to elevate the dining experienceCreate a welcoming atmosphere that reflects Applebee's commitment to being a neighborhood gathering placeWhat You Bring
Required Qualifications
3+ years of General Manager or multi-unit management experience in full-service, casual dining restaurantsProven track record of financial management including P&L responsibility, cost control, and budget managementStrong leadership skills with demonstrated ability to build, develop, and retain high-performing teamsExperience with performance coaching, conflict resolution, and progressive disciplineComprehensive knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department regulationsExcellent interpersonal and communication skillsAbility to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays as neededHigh school diploma or equivalent required; college degree preferredServSafe certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days)Preferred Qualifications
Experience with casual dining corporate restaurant chainsBackground in high-volume, fast-paced restaurant environmentsProven success in driving sales growth and improving operational metricsExperience with restaurant management systems and POS technologyCommunity involvement and local marketing experienceSkills & Competencies
Strategic thinking with hands-on executionStrong business acumen and analytical skillsCalm under pressure with excellent problem-solving abilitiesOrganized, detail-oriented, and results-drivenPassion for hospitality and genuine care for team membersCommitment to inclusion, diversity, and creating positive workplace culturePhysical Requirements
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 10 hours)Capability to lift and carry up to 50 poundsAbility to work in hot, cold, and loud environmentsManual dexterity for handling equipment, tools, and food productsWhy You'll Love It
Competitive Compensation & Benefits
Base salary : $70,000–$80,000 depending on experiencePerformance-based bonus planComprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance401(k) retirement plan with company matchPaid Time Off and vacation benefitsPaid sick leaveBereavement, Maternity, and Paternity leaveEmployee meal discountsCareer Growth & Support
Opportunity to lead an established restaurant in a great Buffalo locationSupport from experienced District Manager and operations teamAccess to training and development programsClear path for advancement within a growing restaurant groupWork-life balance commitment with structured schedulingAbout Applebee's
Applebee's is America's neighborhood grill and bar, serving quality food and drinks with genuine hospitality in communities across the country. We're proud to be a place where guests gather to connect, celebrate, and enjoy great food in a welcoming atmosphere.