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
