THE YARD Restaurant Manager
The Restaurant Manager is responsible for owning and operating The Yard as a standalone, high-energy venue within the property. This role leads all front-of-house operations across indoor and outdoor spaces, with full accountability for guest experience, team performance, and revenue execution.
Responsibilities:
Full Venue Ownership
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Take full responsibility for the performance and execution of The Yard
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Operate the space as a standalone concept with a strong identity and consistent energy
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Be the visible leader on the floor, setting the tone for both guests and staff
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Ensure the venue is consistently busy, engaging, and well-managed
Guest Experience & Sales Leadership
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Actively engage with guests and build relationships to drive repeat business
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Identify opportunities to increase revenue through upselling, programming, and guest interaction
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Maintain a strong presence during peak periods, ensuring energy and service remain high
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Deliver an experience that feels intentional, not routine
Outdoor & Experience-Driven Operations
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Lead operations across both indoor and outdoor spaces, with a focus on seasonal performance
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Manage the flow, layout, and energy of the patio and open-air environment
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Ensure all elements of the space, including seating, lighting, and setup, contribute to the guest experience
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Adapt operations based on weather, volume, and event programming
Live Fire & Concept Integration
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Work closely with the kitchen to support and showcase live fire cooking elements
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Ensure the food experience is visible, engaging, and aligned with the concept
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Maintain safe and effective integration of fire features within the guest environment
Team Leadership & Culture
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Build, train, and develop a high-performing front-of-house team
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Set clear expectations for energy, service, and guest interaction
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Hold team members accountable to standards and performance
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Create a culture that is professional, fast-paced, and guest-focused
Service Execution & Floor Control
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Maintain full control of service flow, personnel, and pacing during all shifts
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Adjust sections and personnel in real time based on volume
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Step into service roles as needed to maintain standards
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Ensure consistent execution across all areas of operation
Bar & Revenue Performance
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Oversee bar operations with a focus on speed, consistency, and profitability
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Drive beverage sales through staff engagement and product knowledge
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Ensure the beverage program supports the overall concept and guest experience
Ambience & Programming
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Own the atmosphere of the space, including music, lighting, and energy
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Support and execute live music, events, and activations
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Ensure the venue evolves throughout the day, from daytime social to high-energy evening environment
Performance Expectations
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Strong leadership presence with the ability to command and manage a high-volume floor
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Proven ability to drive revenue, not just manage service
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Consistent delivery of a high-energy, engaging guest experience
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Ability to operate independently and make confident decisions
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Accountability for results, including sales, labor, and guest satisfaction
Qualifications:-
3 to 5+ years of restaurant or venue management experience
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Experience in high-volume, event-driven, or outdoor dining environments strongly preferred
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Demonstrated ability to lead teams and drive performance
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills
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Flexible availability, including nights, weekends, and peak seasonal periods
Work Environment
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Fast-paced, high-energy hospitality environment
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Indoor and outdoor operations with exposure to varying weather conditions
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Requires standing, walking, and active engagement throughout the shift
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Includes late nights, weekends, and event-based scheduling
What Success Looks Like
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The Yard consistently operates as a busy, energetic, and well-executed venue
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Guests stay longer, spend more, and return frequently
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The team is engaged, accountable, and performing at a high level
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Service flows smoothly even during peak periods
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The space feels intentional, alive, and differentiated at all times
Role Mindset
This role is about ownership, not oversight. The Restaurant Manager is expected to take full responsibility for the performance of the venue, drive results, and create an experience that guests actively seek out.
About Company
The Iron Horse Hotel is Milwaukee's most chic and sophisticated property, located in the city's historic warehouse district. The transformation of a 100-year-old downtown warehouse into a modern luxury boutique hotel. Lounge, bar, restaurants, top-notch business services, meeting spaces, and never-before-seen rider amenities are just a few of the amenities available. VIP Pooch treatment for your family dog.
