Restaurant General Manager

Company Overview

Pizza Ranch® Inc. began as a single restaurant in Hull, Iowa, in 1981 and has since grown into a leading fast-casual franchise with over 200 locations across fifteen states. Known for our legendary pizza, crispy chicken, fresh salad bar, and delicious dessert buffet, we offer an exceptional dining experience through dine-in, takeout, and delivery services.

At Pizza Ranch, we are driven by a powerful mission:

"To establish every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives."

Gravy Train Restaurant Management is proud to operate several Pizza Ranch locations across the Midwest, and we are excited to welcome you to our growing leadership team. Your decision to join us marks the beginning of what we hope will be a rewarding and impactful journey—for both you and the communities we serve.

The Opportunity:
We are looking for a dedicated leader to manage one of our local restaurants and become a key part of the community. As General Manager, you will lead a friendly team and ensure every guest feels welcome while enjoying a great meal. This role is about more than just operations; it's about mentoring your staff, growing the business through genuine service, and representing the Gravy Train family. For those with a long-term vision, we offer an Owner Operator path—a meaningful opportunity to transition into business ownership and build a lasting legacy within our organization.

What You'll Do:

• Lead with Excellence: Provide strong leadership to a team of managers and employees, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and high performance.
  
• Ensure a Legendary Guest Experience: Set the standard for exceptional hospitality by ensuring high food quality, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere.
  
• Drive Business Success: Manage restaurant operations efficiently, including labor costs, food costs, inventory, and sales growth.
  
• Develop & Mentor Your Team: Hire, train, and develop employees to create future leaders within the organization. Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching.
  
• Maintain Operational Standards: Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and food regulations while maintaining a clean and organized restaurant.
  
• Innovate & Adapt: Identify opportunities to improve processes, enhance guest experiences, and increase efficiency.
  
• Represent the Brand: Build strong community relationships and uphold the values and reputation of Gravy Train Restaurant Management.
  

What You Bring to the Table:

• Passion for Leadership & People Development – You love coaching and inspiring teams to perform at their best.
  
• Proven Restaurant Management Experience – 3+ years in a leadership role within a restaurant or hospitality environment.
  
• Strong Business Acumen – Experience managing financials, including P&L, budgets, and cost control.
  
• Guest-Focused Mindset – A commitment to providing top-tier customer service and resolving guest concerns effectively.
  
• Ability to Thrive in a Fast-Paced Environment – Skilled in multitasking, problem-solving, and making strategic decisions on the go.
  
• Excellent Communication Skills – Ability to clearly communicate expectations, provide feedback, and engage with team members at all levels.
  

Why Join Us?

• Growth & Development – We are committed to investing in our leaders, offering career advancement and potential transition into an owner-operator role.
  
• Competitive Compensation – Includes salary, performance-based incentives, and benefits.
  
• Supportive Team Culture – Be part of a company that values teamwork, integrity, and a positive work environment where every member is treated with respect.
  

Qualifications & Skills:

• Passion for leading and developing people.
  
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license
  
• 3-5 years of restaurant management experience, preferably in multi-unit or traveling roles.
  
• Ability to travel regularly across Iowa and Illinois
  
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt quickly.
  
• Effective communicator with strong oral and written communication skills.
  
• Proficient in basic computer skills and restaurant management software.
  
• High school diploma or equivalent required; college degree preferred.
  
• Business acumen with a strong focus on financial and operational performance.
  
• Eligible to be an owner operator after 12 months of employment.
  

Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? Apply today and become part of a team that's passionate about great food, outstanding service, and building something truly special.