Dining Room and Events Manager

Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar is the premier dining destination for exquisite seafood, classic cuisine, decadent desserts, and a world-class wine list. Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan since 2004, Leo’s has stayed committed to always sourcing fresh quality ingredients, carefully crafting each menu, and delivering an extraordinary experience to each and every guest.

From intimate celebrations to large-scale corporate dinners, Leo’s brings warmth, elegance, and exceptional service to every occasion. We’re looking for an experienced, organized Dining Room and Events Manager to manage the daily operations of the restaurant, plan flawless events, and elevate the guest experience to the highest level possible.

We operate high volume meal periods, Monday – Friday 11:30a-9p and Saturdays 4:30p-10p. We are open on Sundays for special occasions.

Benefits

We believe great hospitality starts with taking care of our people, so we offer:

• Health benefits start on day one
• Company paid group life insurance, voluntary short term and long-term disability
• Paid time off package including sick pay
• Health Saving Account with wellness incentives
• 401(k) Plan with company match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Holiday schedule throughout the year to enjoy time with family
• Competitive pay based on experience
• Employee dining discounts
• Opportunities for professional growth in both event planning and leadership
• A creative, supportive workplace where your ideas are valued and encouraged

Key Responsibilities

Front-of-House Leadership

• Lead, train, coach, and supervise the front-of-house team, ensuring fine dining service standards are consistently achieved
• Deliver exceptional guest experiences by maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, service quality, and restaurant presentation
• Plan, assign, and monitor daily responsibilities, providing ongoing support and follow-up to ensure operational excellence
• Address guest and team member concerns professionally, partnering with the Assistant General Manager and General Manager to resolve issues and implement corrective actions
• Coordinate and oversee private dining functions and special events, ensuring seamless execution and guest satisfaction
• Utilize restaurant technology and the POS system effectively for order management, reporting, and operational efficiency while identifying opportunities to improve processes
• Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures, as well as applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including responsible alcohol service
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management

Event Coordination

• Collaborate with clients to understand the vision, requirements, and goals for each event
• Plan and coordinate events within budget and time constraints
• Negotiate with vendors to secure favorable terms and maintain quality standards
• Manage all operational aspects, including setup, service flow, and breakdown
• Conduct final event-day checks (e.g., table settings, audio/visual equipment) to ensure readiness
• Oversee events in real time, resolving issues quickly and professionally
• Evaluate each event’s success and provide post-event reports with insights and recommendations
• Utilize TripleSeat Event Management software to manage inquiries, proposals, and event details

Qualifications & Skills

• 2–4 years of management experience in a fine dining or upscale hospitality environment
• Demonstrated success leading front-of-house operations and planning/executing private events
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to coach, motivate, and develop high-performing teams
• Strong understanding of food and beverage operations, guest service standards, and operational excellence
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Adaptable, professional, and committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences while building positive relationships with guests, vendors, and team members
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and restaurant technology; experience with POS systems required, experience with TripleSeat Event Management and Canva is preferred

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Must be able to be on feet for long periods of time
• Required to climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, bend stretch and twist or reach
• Have the ability to push, pull or lift up to 25 pounds occasionally

Equal Opportunity Employer

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Restaurant management: 2 years (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Required)

Work Location: In person