Executive Assistant Restaurant Manager

Executive Assistant Restaurant Manager

Casual Full-Service

Market: Des Moines, Ames & Iowa City, IA

Position Summary

The Executive Assistant Manager (EAM) is a high-impact leadership role designed to support the District Manager in driving operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and team performance across multiple restaurant locations. This role serves as a flexible, hands-on leader who can step into various Front-of-House (FOH) functions as needed while maintaining strong oversight of standards, systems, and people development.

The ideal candidate brings a proven track record from a corporate restaurant environment—either full-service or QSR—with demonstrated stability and strong tenure. This position requires the ability to work extended hours, weekends, and travel regularly within the market.

Key Responsibilities

Operational & Leadership Support

• Partner closely with the District Manager to execute company initiatives, operational standards, and performance goals
• Assist with oversight of daily operations across multiple locations, ensuring consistency in food quality, service, cleanliness, and safety
• Serve as a leadership presence in restaurants during peak periods, special projects, and coverage needs
• Support execution of new openings, remodels, menu rollouts, and operational pilots as assigned

Front-of-House Execution

• Provide hands-on FOH leadership, including stepping into bartending and serving roles when business needs require
• Coach and support FOH teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences
• Ensure adherence to service standards, alcohol compliance, and responsible service practices
• Address guest concerns promptly and professionally, resolving issues to brand standards

Team Development & Culture

• Support hiring, onboarding, training, and development of hourly and management team members
• Reinforce a culture of accountability, professionalism, and guest-first service
• Assist with performance management, coaching, and corrective action in partnership with the District Manager
• Serve as a role model for leadership behaviors and company values

Administrative & Business Support

• Assist with labor management, scheduling, and productivity controls
• Support inventory control, cost management, and cash handling procedures
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, brand standards, and local/state regulations
• Provide operational feedback and insights to the District Manager to drive continuous improvement

Schedule & Travel Requirements

• Ability to work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Regular travel required between restaurant locations in Des Moines, Ames, and Iowa City, IA
• Flexibility to adjust schedule based on business needs and district priorities

Qualifications

Required

• 3+ years of management experience in a corporate restaurant environment (QSR or full-service)
• Demonstrated strong tenure and career stability
• Proven ability to lead teams in high-volume, guest-facing environments
• Hands-on operational mindset with willingness to work FOH positions as needed
• Strong communication, organization, and follow-through skills
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Preferred

• Experience supporting multi-unit or district-level operations
• Background in casual dining or high-volume restaurant brands
• Bartending and alcohol service experience
• ServSafe and alcohol certification (or ability to obtain)

What Success Looks Like

• District Manager is effectively supported through reliable execution and leadership presence
• Restaurants consistently meet or exceed brand standards and guest satisfaction goals
• FOH teams feel supported, coached, and engaged
• Operations run smoothly during peak periods, transitions, and special initiatives