Vice President of Operations

Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) has created some of New York’s most beloved restaurants, cafes, and bars, which offer outstanding food delivered with our signature warmth and hospitality. Founded by CEO Danny Meyer with the opening of Union Square Cafe in 1985, the company now extends beyond the walls of its eateries. 

With operations in New York, USHG has long supported its communities through hunger relief and civic organizations. USHG holds 28 James Beard Awards and numerous accolades for its distinctive style of hospitality.

The Vice President of Operations serves as a key leader, responsible for shaping and executing USHG’s strategic vision. This individual oversees all aspects of business operations, financial performance, and organizational growth. They focus on expanding market presence, driving menu innovation, optimizing operational efficiency, and building a high-performing team to sustain long-term success. They lead the team in delivering consistent, memorable moments of hospitality while championing a culture of Enlightened Hospitality.

Strategic Planning & Leadership (25-30%)

• → Partner with senior leadership to shape and execute the company’s overall business strategy.
• → Define performance goals and implement initiatives to achieve operational and financial excellence.
• → Identify opportunities for innovation in menu development, guest experience, and technology adoption.
• → Help shape the strategic direction for company growth, integral in assessing new business sites and shaping concepts.

Operational Oversight & Management (20-25%)

• → Ensure efficiency, consistency, and profitability across all locations.
• → Implement and maintain brand and operational standards, ensuring excellence in execution.
• → Analyze performance trends and develop strategies to optimize operations and customer satisfaction.
• → Oversee problem-solving efforts, troubleshooting operational challenges, and ensuring seamless execution.
• → Conduct regular site visits to monitor service quality, customer experience, and team performance.

Financial Management (15-20%)

• → Develop and manage company-wide budgets to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• → Partner on optimization of supply chain processes to improve cost efficiency and quality standards.
• → Analyze P&L statements to assess financial performance and drive revenue growth.
• → Work closely with finance teams to identify areas for cost control and operational investments.

People & Development (10-15%)

• → Inspire, mentor, and develop a strong leadership team, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
• → Lead staffing strategy, ensuring the right talent is in place at all levels of the organization.
• → Oversee hiring, training, and retention programs to build a high-performing workforce.
• → Foster a culture that celebrates internal growth and development as well as a long-term point of view.

Business Development & Growth Strategy (10-15%)

• → Evaluate new business opportunities, including market expansion and partnerships.
• → Oversee new location launches, ensuring smooth execution and brand consistency.
• → Monitor competitive landscape to stay ahead of industry trends and position the company for success.
• → Represent the company at industry events, networking engagements, and external forums.

Industry Engagement & Competitive Analysis (5-10%)

• → Stay informed about industry trends, emerging market opportunities, and best practices.
• → Build relationships within the hospitality industry to strengthen brand presence and influence.
• → Attend industry conferences and events to represent the company and drive thought leadership.

Problem Solving & Crisis Management (5-10%)

• → Conduct regular visits to various locations to assess operational performance and compliance.
• → Identify and address operational challenges, ensuring swift and effective resolutions.
• → Gather direct insights from customers and staff to drive continuous operational improvements.
• → Proactively tackle unforeseen issues, minimizing disruptions to business operations.
• → Troubleshoot complex operational problems, implementing sustainable solutions.

•  10+ years of executive-level leadership experience in multi-unit restaurants or hospitality operations.
•  Proven ability to develop and execute large-scale business strategies.
•  Strong business and financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and P&L management, with the ability to analyze performance metrics and drive strategic growth.
•  Strong leadership and team development skills, with a track record of building high-performing teams.
•  Experience in menu innovation, guest experience enhancement, and operational efficiency.
•  Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot operational challenges effectively.
•  Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
•  Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience and leadership capabilities.

At Union Square Hospitality Group, extending Enlightened Hospitality is at the heart of everything we do. We believe our people are our greatest ingredient. Joining our team means becoming part of a culture rooted in care, creativity, and growth. As a Vice President of Operations, you’ll enjoy:

•  Competitive pay and bonus potential: Annual compensation of $225,000 plus eligibility for a performance-based bonus of 25% of salary, with consideration for your experience and impact
•  Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus flexible spending options for healthcare and dependent care
•  Time to recharge: Generous paid time off and paid parental leave to support life outside of work
•  Investing in your future: A matched 401(k) plan to help you grow long-term savings
•  Peace of mind: Life insurance, employee assistance programs, and exclusive access to primary care, mental health, and other wellness services.
•  Support in times of need: Access to the USHG HUGS Employee Relief Fund, offering direct assistance to team members facing unexpected hardship
•  Hospitality perks: Annual dining credit and a 51% dining discount across the entire USHG family of restaurants
•  Convenience & flexibility: Pre-tax commuter benefits for transit and parking
•  Growth and community: Opportunities for learning, mentorship, and collaboration with some of the most passionate people in hospitality.

Putting Enlightened Hospitality into Practice 

Integral to our culture are our six behaviors. Our behaviors guide how we work together. 

• We play to win with humble swagger. Hospitality is a team sport where everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive and belong 
• Turn over the rocks and always be connecting dots to build uplifting experiences and relationships 
• Center the salt shaker with an unwavering commitment to excellence and the values that matter most 
• Write a great next chapter. The road to success is paved with mistakes well-handled 
• Bring a charitable assumption and err on the side of generosity 
• Leave our campsite better than we found it; always responsible for the impact of our wake 

*The above represents the expected salary range for this position. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we'll consider your experience and other job-related factors.

The responsibilities outlined above are not exhaustive. This role may be required to take on other duties or projects as necessary to support organizational goals, in alignment with their skills, experience, and the evolving needs of the business.