Restaurant Manager — Taj Jumeira Lakes Tower Dubai

Overview: The Restaurant Manager will lead daily operations for one or more signature dining outlets at Taj Jumeira Lakes Tower, delivering exceptional guest experiences, driving commercial performance, and mentoring a multicultural team. The role requires proven leadership in upscale hospitality, strong operational acumen, and the ability to represent Taj’s service standards with warmth and professionalism.

Position Summary
Position: Restaurant Manager
Location: Taj Jumeira Lakes Tower, Dubai
Employment Type: Full time; managerial, guest‑facing leadership role across food and beverage operations.

Duties and Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee all front‑of‑house operations for assigned restaurant(s), ensuring smooth service flow from opening to close.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures to maintain consistency in service, food quality, and guest satisfaction.
• Manage daily staffing rosters, shift assignments, and on‑the‑job training to meet business needs and budget targets.

Guest Experience and Service Excellence

• Ensure every guest receives personalised, anticipatory service consistent with Taj brand standards.
• Handle guest feedback and complaints with diplomacy and speed, implementing service recovery measures and following up to ensure satisfaction.
• Maintain high standards of presentation, ambience, and table management to create memorable dining experiences.

Commercial Management

• Drive revenue growth through effective upselling, menu knowledge, promotions, and events; monitor covers, average spend, and table turnover.
• Prepare and manage budgets, control labour and operating costs, and deliver on monthly financial targets.
• Analyse sales data and guest feedback to identify opportunities for menu optimisation, promotions, and service improvements.

Team Development and People Management

• Recruit, train, coach, and motivate a diverse team of supervisors, hosts, servers, and support staff; conduct regular performance reviews.
• Foster a positive, inclusive workplace culture that encourages accountability, continuous learning, and high morale.
• Lead by example in grooming, punctuality, and professional conduct; ensure all team members understand and live Taj’s service values.

Quality, Safety and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, licensing, and health and safety regulations; coordinate with kitchen and housekeeping teams on standards.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections; implement corrective actions and continuous improvement plans.
• Maintain accurate records for inventory, waste, and supplier deliveries; work with procurement to ensure cost‑effective purchasing.

Events and Special Projects

• Plan and execute special events, private dining, and seasonal promotions in collaboration with culinary and marketing teams.
• Support pre‑opening or rebranding initiatives, menu launches, and cross‑departmental projects as required.
• Represent the restaurant at internal and external meetings, industry events, and guest functions.

Requirements

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of progressive experience in restaurant management at a high‑end, luxury, or upscale international property.
• Demonstrable track record of managing multi‑outlet operations, achieving revenue targets, and leading teams of 20+ staff.
• Formal hospitality qualification or diploma is preferred but not mandatory for candidates with strong operational experience.

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional leadership and people management skills with the ability to coach, inspire, and hold teams accountable.
• Strong commercial mindset with experience in budgeting, P&L responsibility, and cost control.
• Excellent guest service orientation, problem solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• High level of organisational ability and attention to detail under pressure.
• Proficient in restaurant POS systems, Microsoft Office, and basic reporting tools.

Language and Cultural Fit

• Fluent English required; additional language skills (Arabic, Hindi, Russian, Mandarin, or other) are an advantage depending on guest mix.
• Comfortable working in a multicultural environment and leading a diverse team; respectful of local customs and international guest expectations.

Personal Attributes

• Professional presentation, strong work ethic, and a calm, composed demeanour.
• Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, guest satisfaction, and Taj’s service philosophy.

Company About Us

Taj Jumeira Lakes Tower Dubai is part of the Taj Hotels portfolio, a globally recognised luxury hospitality brand celebrated for blending authentic Indian hospitality with contemporary global standards. Located in a prime Dubai neighbourhood, Taj Jumeira Lakes Tower offers refined accommodations, signature dining experiences, and personalised service that reflect the brand’s commitment to warmth, attention to detail, and cultural richness. Our team delivers memorable stays and dining moments for both leisure and business travellers through curated experiences, artful design, and a service culture known as “Tajness.”

Our Culture and Commitments

• We invest in our people through structured training, mentorship, and clear career pathways across food and beverage and hotel operations.
• We value diversity, local talent development, and a collaborative workplace where ideas to enhance guest experience are welcomed.
• Sustainability and community engagement are integral to our operations; we aim to deliver responsible hospitality that benefits guests, colleagues, and the local community.

Application Process

How to Apply

• Prepare a current CV and a cover letter that highlights your restaurant management experience, leadership achievements, and availability.
• In your cover letter, state your earliest start date, preferred shift pattern, and two professional references (name, position, contact).
• Email your application to sonia.kalangutkar@tajhotels.com or cassandrasoccorina.f@tajhotels.com.

Email Subject Line

• Use the subject line: Application — Restaurant Manager — [Your Full Name].

Attachments and Format

• Attach documents in PDF or Word format; ensure file names are professional (e.g., Jane‑Doe‑CV.pdf).
• Include copies of relevant certificates or hospitality qualifications if available.

Selection Timeline and Process

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial phone or video screening.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an in‑person interview and a practical assessment at the hotel.
• Final offers are subject to reference checks and verification of eligibility to work in the UAE.

Equal Opportunity Statement

• Taj Jumeira Lakes Tower is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to fair hiring practices. Selection is based on merit, experience, and fit for the role.

Updating or Withdrawing Your Application

• If your circumstances change after applying, notify the recruitment contacts at the email addresses above so your application can be updated or withdrawn.