Director, F&B at Churchill Downs in Richmond, VA

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Food & Beverage provides leadership and strategic planning for all facets of F&B department operations. This role is accountable for guest experience, revenue, profitability, operational consistency, product quality, team performance, and compliance in a fast-paced gaming and entertainment environment. Responsible for maintaining the Company’s quality and Food and Beverage standards.

Compensation: $90,000 - $120,000/year

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leads the hiring, training, development, performance management, and efficient deployment of Food & Beverage team members and leaders.
• Plans and organizes workloads, staffing levels, schedules, and assignments; establishes clear performance expectations and holds assigned team members accountable for results.
• Establishes and maintains department standards, operating procedures, service expectations, goals, budgets, staffing plans, and administrative processes to ensure efficient and effective Food & Beverage operations.
• Directs and manages assigned Food & Beverage outlets, including restaurants, bars, concessions, buffets, and other operations, ensuring appropriate leadership coverage and execution of daily operating requirements.
• Analyzes operating reports and financial results and manages revenue, labor, food and beverage costs, expenses, inventory, and other controllable costs to meet or exceed budget and profitability objectives.
• Directs restaurant and beverage operations to maximize profitability while maintaining appropriate product quality, service standards, food safety, and guest satisfaction.
• Oversees menu and beverage program development, pricing, costing, and POS accuracy and evaluates new offerings based on quality, guest demand, operational feasibility, and financial performance.
• Reviews the performance, strengths, and opportunities of Food & Beverage operations and implements changes to improve service, operational effectiveness, productivity, and financial results.
• Communicates and partners effectively with suppliers regarding product specifications, purchasing, inventory, and departmental needs while adhering to established procurement and cost-control procedures.
• Ensures appropriate inventory levels and controls are maintained and that products and supplies are properly received, stored, secured, and accounted for.
• Maintains cooperative working relationships with property leadership and other departments to ensure Food & Beverage priorities are aligned with overall property goals, events, promotions, and guest needs.
• Ensures guest satisfaction through visible leadership, timely resolution of service concerns, and consistent interaction with guests and team members to build guest loyalty.
• Partners with Marketing and property leadership, as appropriate, on promotions, events, offerings, and other initiatives designed to attract guests and drive Food & Beverage revenue.
• Maintains and enforces compliance with applicable health, safety, food handling, sanitation, alcohol service, gaming, and other regulatory requirements, as well as Company policies and departmental procedures.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrated leadership and management skills, including the ability to develop leaders, manage performance, and build effective teams.

• Ability to think strategically, translate business objectives into operating plans, and plan over a one-to-three-year horizon as appropriate to the scope of the position.
• Strong financial and business acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, labor management, cost controls, inventory management, and analysis of operating results.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with strong presentation and public-speaking capabilities as appropriate to the position.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain composure in a fast-paced, high-volume hospitality and gaming environment.
• Strong knowledge of restaurant and beverage operations, including menu development, costing, labor management, food and beverage trends, service standards, and overall hospitality operations.
• Knowledge of wine, food, spirits, and beverage operations commensurate with property offerings.
• Digital literacy and proficiency with systems and computer programs used in Food & Beverage operations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain all racing and/or gaming licenses as required in applicable jurisdiction(s).
• Must successfully pass all required background investigations and licensing requirements.
• Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.

• Progressive Food & Beverage leadership experience in a restaurant, casino, hotel, racing, entertainment, or comparable hospitality environment. Experience leading multiple Food & Beverage outlets and managing financial performance, labor, service, and operational standards.
• Demonstrated success leading large-scale gaming and hospitality operations with responsibility for financial performance, regulatory compliance, team member engagement, and guest satisfaction.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

• While performing the duties of this job, may frequently use hands to reach, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
• The team member may be required to stand for extended periods.

• The team member may be required to lift up to 50 pounds.
• The team member may be required to work long or varied hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and special events based on business needs.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.

• The work environment may vary in levels of crowds, flashing lights, and may include exposure to smoke in various areas of the properties.
• Regular onsite presence is required. Business travel may be required to support other Company properties based on business and operational needs.