Social Cantina- Germantown, TN Director of Restaurant Operations – Nashville Nashville, TN · Full time Company website

Apply for Director of Restaurant Operations – Nashville

Bringing our best to the table. Every time. We're not just another restaurant group. We’re a team of doers and industry-passionate individuals who are committed to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. Our focus is on creating legendary experiences rooted in human connection, and we keep our chins up, our eyes above the horizon, and our hearts in the right place. At Social Cantina, we offer more than just a job. You can expect to be part of a dynamic, fun, and fast-paced environment where your career can truly flourish. We provide a variety of exciting roles in both the front and back of the house, with ample opportunities for growth and advancement. Our team-centric culture values creativity, collaboration, and customer satisfaction, ensuring a fulfilling work experience. Discover the benefits of working with us, including competitive pay, flexible schedules, and a supportive community that feels like family.

Are you a high-energy hospitality leader who thrives on building strong teams, driving results, and creating unforgettable guest experiences? We’re looking for a Director of Restaurant Operations to lead our Nashville market and help take our restaurant operations to the next level.

This is more than a restaurant leadership role — it’s an opportunity to shape culture, develop leaders, drive business growth, and make a lasting impact within a growing hospitality company. As the senior operational leader for the Nashville market, you’ll oversee the location's Management Team and overall restaurant performance while partnering with executive leadership to deliver operational excellence, financial success, and exceptional hospitality. This position is expected to work shifts in the restaurant initially and until no longer necessary for successful operation.

If you’re passionate about people, hospitality, leadership development, and creating a high-performing culture, we’d love to meet you.

What You’ll Do

Lead the Nashville Market

• Serve as the senior operational leader for the Nashville location
• Partner with the General Manager and leadership team to drive operational excellence and business performance
• Ensure consistency in service, food quality, hospitality standards, and overall guest experience
• Lead with a hands-on, solutions-focused approach that inspires accountability and teamwork
• Support company growth initiatives and help identify opportunities for future market expansion

Build & Develop Great Teams

• Recruit, coach, and develop strong leaders and high-performing teams
• Mentor the General Manager and management team through ongoing feedback, support, and leadership development
• Foster a positive, energetic, and hospitality-driven culture
• Create an environment where team members feel supported, challenged, and motivated to grow
• Lead performance management, succession planning, and talent development efforts

Drive Business Performance

• Oversee labor management, food and beverage costs, inventory, and controllable expenses
• Analyze financial reports, operational metrics, and sales trends to drive profitability
• Partner with leadership on forecasting, budgeting, and strategic planning
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and maximize business results
• Ensure compliance with company standards, safety guidelines, and health regulations

Deliver Exceptional Hospitality

• Create memorable guest experiences by leading with hospitality at the center of everything you do
• Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements that elevate service and operations
• Support teams in resolving guest concerns quickly and professionally
• Maintain a strong and visible presence in the restaurant while leading by example

Represent the Brand in Nashville

• Build strong relationships within the local community and hospitality industry
• Support local marketing initiatives, events, partnerships, and promotions
• Help grow brand awareness and community engagement throughout the Nashville market

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of progressive restaurant leadership experience in a full-service environment
• Experience leading senior restaurant managers or General Managers preferred
• Strong operational and financial management skills, including labor, cost controls, and budgeting
• Passion for developing people and building high-performing teams
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy hospitality environment
• Experience with restaurant management systems and Microsoft Office Suite
• Knowledge of Latin cuisine is a plus
• ServSafe Manager Certification and liquor licensing (or ability to obtain) required

What You Can Expect

• Competitive salary and bonus opportunity
• Growth potential within a rapidly expanding hospitality group
• Leadership development and advancement opportunities
• A collaborative, people-first culture focused on hospitality and excellence
• The opportunity to make a real impact within an exciting and growing market

Work Requirements

• Minimum of 45 hours per week with open availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to travel for leadership meetings and company training as needed
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs

Ready to lead, grow, and make an impact in Nashville hospitality? Apply today and join a team passionate about great food, great people, and unforgettable experiences.