General Manager
Kearney, Nebraska, United States
As the General Manager at Old Chicago in Kearney, NE, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of restaurant operations and leading a team to deliver exceptional service and memorable dining experiences. In addition to managing day-to-day operations, I also tackled the challenges and complications brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, including addressing the lack of quality employee applicants, rising costs, and implementing strategies to adapt to the changing circumstances.During this time, I proactively sought ways to deal with the unique challenges faced by restaurants due to COVID-19. I implemented safety protocols recommended by health authorities, ensuring the well-being of both employees and customers. Additionally, I developed strategies to attract and retain talented employees in a competitive hiring market, despite the limited pool of applicants.Another aspect I managed was the rising costs associated with running a restaurant during the pandemic. I closely monitored food costs, paper goods costs, repairs costs, and services costs, implementing cost-saving measures where possible without compromising on quality and service. This required careful budgeting, vendor negotiations, and resource optimization to maintain profitability.Throughout these difficulties, I remained committed to upholding Old Chicago's high standards of service, quality, and guest satisfaction. I fostered a positive and energetic work environment, ensuring that my team members felt supported and motivated to deliver their best performance.Overall, my role as General Manager at Old Chicago in Kearney, NE involved not only overseeing restaurant operations but also finding innovative ways to navigate the complexities and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. My leadership, adaptability, and strategic decision-making were instrumental in ensuring the continued success and resilience of the restaurant during these unprecedented times.