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Hospitality Innovations Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

LBA Hospitality

Assistant General Manager

Saraland, AL · On-site

Communicate and document using internal means: logs, bibles, Innovations, email, etc. * Must be thoroughly familiar with the Associate Handbook, implement all the rules, policies and procedures ...

LBA Hospitality

Assistant General Manager

Saraland, AL · On-site

Communicate and document using internal means: logs, bibles, Innovations, email, etc. * Must be thoroughly familiar with the Associate Handbook, implement all the rules, policies and procedures ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - Huntsville, AL

Central, AL

Be informed of market conditions, product innovations, and competitors' products, prices, and sales ... Bachelor's degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, Hospitality, Culinary Arts or related discipline ...

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Hospitality Innovations information

What is the difference between Hospitality Innovations vs Hospitality Management?

AspectHospitality InnovationsHospitality Management
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in hospitality technology or innovationRequires degrees in hospitality, business, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFocuses on developing new solutions, working with tech teams, and implementing innovationsOversees daily operations, staff management, and guest services
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies aiming to modernize and innovate hospitality servicesCommon in hotels, resorts, and hospitality organizations managing operations

Hospitality Innovations primarily focuses on creating and implementing new technologies and solutions within the hospitality industry, often requiring specialized certifications. Hospitality Management involves overseeing daily operations and staff, requiring a background in hospitality or business. While both roles are vital to the industry, Hospitality Innovations emphasizes innovation and tech, whereas Hospitality Management centers on operational leadership.

What is hospitality innovations?

Hospitality innovations refer to new ideas, technologies, and practices that improve the guest experience, streamline operations, or create new business opportunities in the hospitality industry. These innovations can include things like mobile check-in, smart room technology, sustainable practices, and personalized guest services. The goal is to enhance customer satisfaction, increase efficiency, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Many hotels, restaurants, and travel companies are adopting these innovations to meet changing guest expectations and industry trends.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in hospitality innovations, and how can they overcome them?

Professionals in Hospitality Innovations often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies into legacy systems, ensuring staff adoption of innovative practices, and balancing guest expectations with operational feasibility. Overcoming these hurdles typically involves ongoing training, strong collaboration between IT and front-line teams, and staying attuned to industry trends through networking and professional development. Open communication and pilot testing new ideas in smaller settings can also help teams adapt to changes smoothly and ensure successful implementation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a hospitality innovations role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a hospitality innovations role, you need a solid understanding of hospitality management, technology trends, and customer experience, typically supported by a degree in hospitality, business, or a related field. Familiarity with property management systems (PMS), customer relationship management (CRM) software, and data analytics tools is often required, along with knowledge of relevant certifications like Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP). Creativity, adaptability, and strong problem-solving skills help individuals excel in developing and implementing innovative guest service solutions. These skills ensure that organizations stay competitive, enhance guest satisfaction, and efficiently adopt new technologies in a rapidly evolving industry.
What are popular job titles related to Hospitality Innovations jobs in Alabama? For Hospitality Innovations jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hospitality Innovations jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Hospitality Innovations jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Hospitality Innovations jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Hospitality Innovations job openings:
Hospitality Innovations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hospitality Innovations job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

1856 Restaurant Assistant General Manager/Wine Director

Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center

Auburn, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Purpose

Join Ithaka Hospitality Partners and Auburn University in leading the next generation of hospitality professionals. The Assistant General Manager & Wine Director will serve as a pivotal leader within 1856 – Culinary Residence, a luxury teaching restaurant in the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center. This role supports the restaurant's daily operations, wine education, and beverage program development-balancing commercial excellence with world-class experiential learning for students.

About 1856 – Culinary Residence

1856 – Culinary Residence is a fine dining teaching restaurant named after Auburn University's founding year. The restaurant hosts a Chef in Residence and a Master Sommelier in Residence, offering students real-time mentorship and an immersive restaurant experience through à la carte lunch and a multi-course tasting dinner.

Recognitions include:

  • Forbes, Southern Living, Garden & Gun, Travel + Leisure features
  • AAA Five Diamond Award via The Laurel Hotel & Spa
  • Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Guest Experience

  • Support the General Manager in overseeing all aspects of daily service, operations, scheduling, and staffing.
  • Lead pre-service huddles and manage floor operations during high-touch service hours.
  • Train students and team members to deliver Forbes Five-Star hospitality standards.
  • Coordinate FOH execution in collaboration with the Chef in Residence and Director of Culinary Innovations.
  • Manage guest satisfaction, dietary restrictions, and VIP expectations with precision and grace.

Wine & Beverage Program Leadership

  • Oversee all wine and beverage programming for 1856-Culinary Residence and collaborate with associated outlets such as The Laurel Library, Walt's Rooftop and The Laurel Spa
  • Maintain an award-winning wine list and execute beverage pairing strategies for rotating tasting menus to include wine, spirits and cocktails.
  • Lead wine education, pairings, inventory, and staff training moments.
  • Create engaging guest experiences through curated tastings, dinners, and educational events.
  • Support purchasing and inventory with a focus on quality control and wine cellar management.

Education & Student Development

  • Provide direct mentorship to students working in 1856-Culinary Residence, ensuring a balance between commercial execution and pedagogical value.
  • Administer verbal and written service/wine tests and performance feedback sessions.
  • Develop future sommeliers through a structured internship program, experiential learning opportunities, and global industry exposure.

Strategic & Commercial Oversight

  • Collaborate on forecasting, budgeting, and financial performance targets for wine sales and overall operations.
  • Contribute to the planning of wine-focused events (e.g., industry dinners, beverage conferences, travel immersions).
  • Partner on marketing, menu design, and social media engagement related to beverage programming.
  • Stay current on global beverage trends and integrate them into both operations and academic instruction.

Qualifications

Preferred:

  • 5+ years in fine dining restaurant service, with 3+ years in leadership
  • Deep experience in wine service and programming; certified sommelier certification or equivalent required
  • Experience in multi-course tasting menu environments
  • Strong teaching and mentorship abilities with a passion for student development
  • Experience with wine list development recognized by Wine Spectator or equivalent
  • Background in upscale dining rooms with either Forbes or James Beard Recognition
  • Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Wine Studies, or related field

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to stand, walk, lift, and perform floor duties for extended periods
  • Able to lift 30+ pounds and manage wine cellar organization
  • Available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
  • Travel occasionally for wine industry networking and educational trips

Who We Are

At Ithaka Hospitality Partners, we believe in journeys filled with discovery, hospitality with soul, and partnerships built on trust. We are shaping the future of hospitality-and invite you to be part of it.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.

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