Director of Operations - Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud - Costa Mesa

The Dinex Group by Daniel Boulud owns and operates a collection of restaurants and hospitality venues across the globe. We are currently seeking a Director of Operations for an exciting new project representing the group’s first California location.

Overview

The Director of Operations oversees the day-to-day operations of multiple concepts within the project, including the supervision of General Managers, financial performance, business strategy, and overall guest experience. This individual must demonstrate the ability to inspire and lead a team of mid- to senior-level managers while collaborating cross-functionally to execute a world-class food and beverage program.

From pre-opening critical path through ongoing operations, the Director must possess strong awareness of high-level management practices, with the ability to navigate multiple partnerships and drive operational excellence.

General Responsibilities 

• Co-drive the critical path from pre-construction phase through grand opening and beyond
• Lead the team to sustain each venue’s vision, conceptual direction, and financial targets
• Build and supervise direct reports, including General Managers and department heads
• Partner with culinary leadership to support hiring, training, and development of the culinary team
• Drive creative activations based on seasonality and evolving hospitality market trends
• Maintain elevated guest experience standards from arrival to departure
• Emphasize guest relations while understanding the unique clientele of the concept
• Oversee FP&A, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting
• Collaborate with PR and marketing teams to enhance brand visibility and positioning
• Ensure operational readiness across all phases of the project

General Leadership and Qualities

• Ability to lead daily management briefings and communicate clear operational direction
• Receive, interpret, and execute strategic initiatives from executive leadership
• Build, manage, and develop a high-performing team of hospitality professionals
• Sustain and develop relationships with key stakeholders and partners
• Provide regular P&L analysis and maintain financial accountability
• Create efficient management schedules that support work-life balance
• Oversee facility operations, including vendor relationships and accountability
• Maintain strong cost controls across labor, beverage, and operational expenses
• Conduct weekly management meetings and leadership check-ins
• Uphold all health, safety, and compliance standards
• Lead performance management, training, and disciplinary processes with proper documentation

Requirements

• Director-level (or above) food & beverage management experience within a restaurant group
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting and FP&A
• Advanced emotional intelligence and leadership presence
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and restaurant management systems (e.g., POS, reservations, event platforms)
• Ability to multi-task and operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment
• Advanced food and beverage knowledge

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in a Director-level role within the hospitality industry
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Hospitality, or related field preferred
• Fluency in English (written and verbal)
• Additional language skills are a plus
• Experience in Michelin-starred and/or luxury dining environments strongly preferred
• Familiarity with Forbes-level service standards preferred

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with all California labor laws, wage and hour regulations, health and safety requirements, and alcohol service laws.
• Enforce safety standards and food handling practices at all times.
  
  

The Dinex Group LLC is an equal opportunity employer. The Dinex Group LLC does not discriminate in employment with regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

More detail about Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud - Costa Mesa part of The Dinex Group, the Restaurant Group of Chef Daniel Boulud, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/1073927-Blue-Box-Café-by-Daniel-Boulud---Costa-Mesa