Bar Issi Palm Springs

The Operations Manager at Bar Issi is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing daily restaurant operations while driving revenue through strategic event booking, seamless event execution, and strong management of the reservations platform and front door experience.

This role blends traditional restaurant management with a focused ownership of private dining, buyouts, large party coordination, and guest flow optimization. The ideal candidate is both operationally strong on the floor and highly organized behind the scenes, with a hospitality-first mindset and a sharp attention to detail.

Event Sales, Booking & Coordination (Primary Focus)

Serve as the primary point of contact for all event inquiries (private dining, large parties, full/partial buyouts)

Respond to event leads in a timely and professional manner, converting inquiries into confirmed bookings

Build and maintain event proposals, menus, and BEOs in alignment with Bar Issi standards

Collaborate with culinary and beverage teams to curate event experiences

Manage all event logistics including timelines, floor plans, staffing needs, and special requests

Ensure seamless communication between FOH, BOH, and management teams leading up to events

Oversee on-site execution of events to ensure exceptional guest experience and operational flow

Identify opportunities to drive event revenue and repeat business

Reservations & Front Door Management

Turn times and table management strategy

Event integration and large party blocking

Monitor and adjust the book to maximize covers and revenue while maintaining service standards

Train and manage host team on reservations, guest flow, and hospitality standards

Accurate wait times

VIP and concierge relationships are prioritized

Maintain strong relationships with local concierges and partners to drive bookings

Restaurant Operations & Service Leadership

Act as Manager on Duty (MOD) during service, leading the floor and supporting all FOH operations

Ensure consistent execution of Bar Issi’s service standards and guest experience

Support staffing, scheduling, and labor management in partnership with senior leadership

Assist with training, coaching, and development of FOH team members

Maintain cleanliness, organization, and operational readiness of the restaurant

Address guest feedback in real time and resolve service issues with professionalism

Maintain accurate event records, deposits, and communication logs

Support financial goals through revenue generation (events) and cost awareness during operations

Assist with SOP development and implementation related to events, reservations, and service flow

Collaborate with marketing on event promotion and special programming

Participate in manager meetings, reporting, and ongoing operational planning

3+ years of restaurant management experience in a high-volume, full-service environment

Proven experience in event coordination, private dining, or group sales

Strong working knowledge of reservation platforms (Resy preferred)

Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail

Ability to multitask and manage both administrative and on-floor responsibilities

Strong communication and leadership skills

Professional, polished, and guest-focused demeanor

Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays