Assistant Director of Operations

Working at Puttshack:   

At Puttshack, we take fun to the next level. With over 20 venues globally and counting, we're a fast-growing team of talented, hands-on go-getters who take pride in the work we do – and have a blast doing it. If you're a mover and shaker who sets the bar high and loves the thrill of building something amazing, you'll fit right in. We're always on the lookout for the best people to join our growth journey. If you're inspired by new ideas and love bringing them to life, then we have the perfect canvas for you!

Position Overview:  

Reporting into the Regional Director of Operations, the Assistant Director of Operations will lead a team of associates and be responsible for overseeing the overall operations of their assigned Puttshack venue location. This role manages a multi-faceted, high volume, full-service bar & restaurant, and event space, with multiple tech-enabled miniature golf courses. As the most senior leader at the venue, you will be a Brand Ambassador and champion the Puttshack culture to ensure operational excellence and exceptional guest services at every step within the venue. The Assistant Director of Operations will be accountable for team leadership and development, achieving business objectives across operations, financials, guest satisfaction, and venue performance that adheres to the company's standards and values. 

Position Responsibilities may include, but not limited to: 

Operational Leadership:  

• Optimize operations within the venue to meet and exceed key metrics to enhance efficiency, profitability, and guest satisfaction. 

• Manage day-to-day operations across all areas of the venue, including game & technology, food & beverage, and overall environment.  

• Uphold company policies, processes, procedures, and standards to adhere to compliance and business objectives.  

• Manage all systems and reporting within the venue, including scheduling & timekeeping tools, cash handling, inventory, POS, reservation system, Puttshack technology, guest satisfaction, etc.  

• Work with onsite game technicians and other cross-functional teams to troubleshoot technology within the courses or other areas of the venue.  

• Manage and oversee the purchasing of products/inventory across all areas of the venue.  

• Manage sales events team for all special events and group sales. 

Financial Management:  

• Manage budgets and forecasts, analyze financial reports, and implement effective strategies to control costs, maximize revenue and spend per visit, and achieve overall financial targets  

• Drive financial success by identifying cost savings opportunities, as well as sales/marketing strategies to increase revenue through enhanced service delivery, promotions, and special events.  

Team Development and Management:  

• Hire, train, and develop a large team of salaried and hourly associates. 

• Maintain proper staffing levels and manage associate schedules.   

• Partner with Talent Acquisition to identify, attract, and hire top talent across venues, with an emphasis on key Leadership roles such as Assistant DOs, Office Managers, Hospitality Managers, Sales Office, and Shift leads.  

• Collaborate with Talent and Training teams to ensure a positive and effective onboarding and training program for all venue associates  

• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that promotes teamwork and associate engagement.  

• Drive accountability and consistency by conducting regular performance evaluations and providing constructive coaching and feedback.  

• Partner with Human Resources to increase associate engagement, minimize turnover, resolve conflict, and address associate relations issues within the venue. 

Guest Experience: 

• Champion the Puttshack brand by ensuring a consistent and exceptional guest experience across all areas of the venue  

• Monitor guest feedback through online reviews, surveys, third-party shoppers, etc. and implement improvements based on insights.  

• Develop and maintain strong relationships within the community and key stakeholders, including guests, partners, and vendors. 

Compliance and Safety: 

• Ensure all locations comply with health and safety regulations within a food & beverage environment, and oversee all inspections, audits, etc. accordingly. 

• Implement and monitor safety protocols to minimize risk and ensure a safe environment for guests and associates. 

•  Address and resolve any operational or safety issues promptly.  

• Ensure the venue operates according to all local, state, and federal employment laws and regulations, including wage & hour, health, & safety. 

Required Skills and Experience:  

• Minimum of 4 years of experience within a high-volume food & beverage, hospitality, and/or social entertainment venue with $10MM+ in sales.

• Proven track record of driving operational excellence and managing P&L to achieve financial targets.  

• Strong knowledge and understanding of food & beverage operations, including full service from-scratch kitchen and bar.  

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team, with a passion for teaching and training.  

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 

•  Tech savvy and willingness to learn new systems and tools.  

• Proven experience managing change  

• Flexible availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as well as occasional travel.  

• This position must pass a post-offer background check 

Preferred Skills and Experience:  

• Experience within a high-growth start-up, including building and implementing SOPS, programs, and policies from scratch.  

•  Servsafe or Department of Health certification a plus  

• Bachelor's degree in related field, hospitality or business management preferred  

This is a hybrid position with 3 days onsite at Puttshack's headquarters in Chicago (River North) with the expectation of travel as needed to support business operations and expansion activities.

Puttshack USA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.