RESTUARANT MANAGER - NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY - EVANSTON, IL

Front Of House Manager

At over 300 college & universities around the country, Chartwells Higher Education is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience. We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. We are food-forward difference makers, bound together by a desire to feed hungry minds and prepare students for success.

We are seeking hungry, humble and smart associates who are looking to join and grow with a diverse organization. We invite you to start your career journey with us and look forward to hearing from you.

Job Summary

We are launching an exciting new high-end Pub on our Northwestern University - Evanston campus in December 2025, and we are seeking a passionate, service-driven Front of House (FOH) Manager to lead our guest-facing operations. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in building and shaping the culture, standards, and success of a brand-new establishment from the ground up.

The ideal candidate is an energetic and strategic leader with a proven track record in hospitality management, team development, financial oversight, and guest relations. We are looking for someone with a creative mindset and strong operational skills who thrives in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all FOH operations, ensuring seamless, efficient, and guest-centric service during all shifts, especially during peak service periods.
• Oversee order flow and throughput to maintain speed of service without compromising guest experience or operational standards.
• Actively manage the dining floor, engaging with guests and providing real-time coaching to staff to drive hospitality excellence.
• Supervise, train, and inspire FOH staff, including hosts, servers, bartenders, and support staff, fostering a high-performing and service-driven culture.
• Conduct daily pre-shift meetings and regular departmental briefings to align the team on goals, operational priorities, and service expectations.
• Respond promptly and professionally to guest feedback and service issues, ensuring satisfaction, loyalty, and swift recovery of any service lapses.
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef to coordinate service flow, menu pacing, and operational planning.
• Oversee alcohol service operations; ensure compliance with all alcohol laws, enforce responsible service standards, and support ongoing beer/wine knowledge training.
• Monitor and maintain food and beverage cost controls, including inventories, pars, and waste reduction initiatives.
• Develop and manage staff schedules, labor forecasting, and timekeeping aligned with operational and financial goals.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, sanitation, and allergen protocols.
• Oversee reservation systems, floor plans, and table management strategies to maximize guest experience, revenue, and operational efficiency.
• Support the recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing training of FOH staff, with a focus on career growth and professional development.
• Uphold brand standards, ambiance, and overall presentation to create an elevated dining atmosphere.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of FOH management experience in an upscale or fine dining environment.
• Demonstrated success managing high-volume service operations, including line flow, speed of service, and throughput during peak periods.
• Strong background in alcohol service oversight; and beer/wine knowledge preferred.
• Proven ability to develop, coach, and elevate staff performance in a fast-paced, guest-centric environment.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and team-building skills with a hands-on management approach.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution abilities.
• Ability to remain poised, professional, and guest-focused under pressure while managing multiple priorities.
• In-depth knowledge of hospitality operations, fine dining etiquette, wine service, and guest experience best practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and restaurant reservation/point-of-sale systems.
• Flexible schedule with availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or a related field preferred.
• Professional appearance, positive demeanor, and a passion for delivering memorable dining experiences.

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates at Chartwells Higher Ed are offered many fantastic benefits.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.