Restaurant Operations Manager – Cruising Restaurants
An exceptional opportunity exists for a seasoned and ambitious hospitality leader to join Australian Cruise Group, the operator of Sydney's iconic Sydney Showboats, Magistic Cruises, and Clearview Glass Boat Cruises. For over 38 years, we have been a leader in Sydney's tourism and leisure landscape, delivering unforgettable experiences on the world's most beautiful harbour.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Chairman and Owner, you will have autonomous leadership over the company's restaurant front‑of‑house operation and guest services area of cruise operations.
This is a hybrid role, as a primary representative of the management team, you will be predominantly based on board one of the cruise vessels with minimal administrative tasks with constant interface with the shore‑based sales and management team.
You will be required to work Saturdays, as the ideal work week would be Tuesday to Saturday with some flexibility.
As a key member of the senior management team, you will also collaborate closely with the General Manager of Sales and the Head of Finance to drive profitability, champion service excellence, and shape the company's strategic growth.
Your primary mission is to elevate our guest experience, enhance our restaurant operation, drive profitability, and lead our service teams to deliver five‑star harbour experiences.
What You'll Do: Key Responsibilities
* Oversee all hospitality and across our fleet of three unique vessels, with a sharp focus on P&L management and F&B excellence.
* Take ownership of the operational budget with a cost management mindset. Proactively manage all associated costs of operational labour costs, beverage costs with smart purchasing, and other operational costs.
* Implement strategic initiatives to maximise on‑board revenue to maximise overall contribution margins.
* Build, mentor, and foster a high‑performing, outcome‑driven culture across the front‑of‑house. Oversee all employee management, including training, rostering, and performance evaluations.
* Conduct regular audits to guarantee unwavering compliance with all regulatory standards, including liquor licensing and food safety regulations.
* Compliance to RSA, WHS, and Food Safety regulations.
* Review and improve the SOP for the various scheduled daily cruises and ensure compliance at customer touch point.
* Ensure a high level of satisfaction for all event cruises by improving delivery standards and coordinating with the sales team.
* Liaise with entertainment team (Showboat Operation).
* Manage supplier relationship with beverage suppliers and secure promotional and volume discounts.
* Assist the team with coordinating any assistance for technology related issues or R&M matters with the marine team.
* The scope of the role excludes marine operation of the vessels, kitchen management and repairs & maintenance team.
What You Need: The Ideal Candidate
* Mandatory – minimum of 10+ years with reputable Sydney, high‑volume hospitality operator (large restaurant groups, premium event venues).
* A good understanding of your department's operating P&L and have a clear track record of improving profitability through effective cost control and revenue generation.
* Sound knowledge of the current Sydney dining scene both in terms of beverage service and menu presentation.
* Ability to communicate clearly with a wide range of audiences, including guests, tour guides, director level and industry partners.
* You have a meticulous eye for detail, an uncompromised commitment to quality, and a genuine passion for creating memorable guest experiences.
Essential Status: Must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident. No working Visas or sponsorship will be considered.
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