As a Restaurant Development Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in creating and shaping a successful restaurant brand in the vibrant community of Grand Haven, MI. Your expertise will guide the establishment from concept to execution, ensuring a seamless experience for both patrons and staff.

___________________________________

Essential Duties

• Brand Creation and Development:
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to conceptualize and define the restaurant brand identity.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to develop a unique and compelling brand story.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to design a cohesive brand image that resonates with the local community and aligns with market trends.
• Location and Design:
  • Evaluate potential restaurant locations in Grand Haven, considering foot traffic, visibility, and neighborhood dynamics.
  • Work closely with architects, interior designers, and contractors to create an inviting and functional space.
  • Lead and complete Ottawa County plan review to ensure compliance with local zoning regulations and health codes.
• Menu and Culinary Direction:
  • Curate an menu that reflects the brand’s identity and appeals to diverse customer preferences.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to develop signature dishes.
  • Monitor food trends and adapt the menu as needed.
• Equipment and Technology:
  • Advise on kitchen equipment condition, layout, and functionality.
• Beverage Program:
  • Collaborate with team and stakeholders to develop a beverage program that complements the menu and enhances the overall dining experience.
  • Source craft beers and specialty cocktails.
  • Collaborate with managers to train staff on proper beverage service and upselling techniques.
• Staff Training and Development:
  • Collaborate with the management team to recruit and train restaurant staff.
  • Conduct orientation sessions to ensure team members understand the service standards.
  • Foster a positive work environment that encourages growth and teamwork.
• Quality Assurance Post-Opening:
  • Implement processes to maintain consistent quality across all aspects of the restaurant.
  • Conduct regular inspections, taste tests, and customer feedback analysis.
  • Address any quality-related issues promptly and proactively.
• Marketing and Promotion:
  • Collaborate with marketing coordinator to create marketing strategies to attract customers and build a loyal clientele.
  • Collaborate with marketing coordinator to coordinate promotional events, seasonal campaigns, and community outreach.
  • Collaborate with marketing coordinator to leverage social media and local advertising channels.
• Financial Management:
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and management to develop budgets for pre-opening expenses, ongoing operations, and marketing initiatives.
  • Monitor financial performance, analyze sales data, and adjust strategies as needed.
  • Optimize costs without compromising quality.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities

• Proven experience in restaurant development, brand creation, or culinary management.
• Strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Passion for food, design, and customer satisfaction.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Inclusion is at the heart of our business.

Official applications for employment must be submitted via MeritageCareers.com.