Front of house manager

Front of House Manager

Waters Edge Winery & Bistro – Midlothian, VA Full-Time | Reports to: General Manager

Position Overview

The Front of House (FOH) Manager is responsible for the leadership, team development, and operational success of the FOH team at Waters Edge Winery & Bistro. This role ensures that all guest-facing areas operate efficiently and uphold the standards of hospitality, quality, and brand identity that define the Waters Edge experience.

Success in this role is defined by:

• Delivering consistently exceptional guest service that drives repeat business and brand loyalty
• Building and maintaining a high-performing, engaged FOH team
• Executing seamless and memorable in-house dining and private events
• Supporting operational leadership in service, training, and guest satisfaction
  
  

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Management

• Hire, onboard, and retain a fully staffed FOH team with low turnover and high engagement
• Oversee daily FOH operations, ensuring readiness before opening and during service peaks
• Implement ongoing training programs in service standards, hospitality, and wine knowledge
• Lead by example to create a team-oriented, accountable culture
• Maintain documentation of staff performance concerns and conduct performance conversations as required
• Create and manage FOH scheduling to meet labor and service demands efficiently
• Support staff coordination for packaging and shipping wine club and e-commerce orders
• Monitor and drive sales goals including event revenue and wine club membership acquisition
  
  

Operational Excellence

• Ensure all FOH areas (dining room, bar, patio, private event spaces) are clean, welcoming, and guest-ready
• Manage inventory of service supplies, smallwares, and perishables; execute timely reorders
• Oversee proper setup and breakdown of all FOH service stations
• Maintain service standards for personal appearance, uniforms, and cleanliness
• Serve as a point of escalation for guest concerns, resolving issues diplomatically and professionally
• Administer and troubleshoot POS systems (Orderport), including register open/close and reporting
• Ensure legal compliance and best practices in alcohol service and consumption (ServSafe principles)
• Adjust environmental factors (music, lighting, HVAC) to maintain a comfortable guest atmosphere
• Maintain and update FOH operational procedures and policy documentation
  
  

Event & Private Dining Coordination

• Collaborate with Events Coordinator and Kitchen Manager to plan and execute private events and winery functions
• Provide on-site leadership during events to ensure smooth service and guest satisfaction
• Assist with event planning logistics as needed
  
  

Who You Are

• Passionate about food, wine, and guest experience
• Effective team leadership through clear communication, coaching, and accountability
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a calm demeanor under pressure
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a dynamic, high-volume environment
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs
• A team-first attitude and willingness to support wherever needed
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or related field preferred; equivalent experience accepted
• Minimum 2 years of FOH restaurant or hospitality management experience required
• Knowledge of wine varietals, regions, and wine service standards strongly preferred
• Proficient in POS systems and basic Office tools; familiarity with Orderport is a plus
• ServSafe Manager Certification preferred (training available)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 60 lbs
• Requires fine motor skills, reaching, grasping, bending, and repetitive movement
• Visual and auditory acuity for interacting with staff, vendors, and guests
  
  

Waters Edge Winery & Bistro is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its team. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment for all employees and guests.