Chief Operations Officer Restaurants

Senior Vice President of Restaurant Operations Premium Multi-Concept Portfolio

Possible COO level

Location: Charlotte, NC - relocate to Charlotte, NC
Compensation: $250,000 - $275,000 Base Salary + Incentives, Benefits & Relocation Allowance
Presented by: Tom Bull, Gecko Hospitality (VA/DC)

The Opportunity

We are representing an elite, chef-driven hospitality group seeking a Senior Vice President of Restaurant Operations to lead a diverse, $75M portfolio of premium concepts. Based in the vibrant Charlotte, NC market, this executive role offers a rare opportunity to partner directly with ownership while shaping the strategic vision of a high-volume, culinary-forward organization.

This position is designed for a visionary leader currently operating at a senior level within the premium dining sector. If you possess a track record of excellence with industry-leading groups such as Stephen Starr or similar high-caliber concepts this role offers the clear pathway to a Chief Operating Officer (COO) position you have been seeking.

Strategic Leadership & Responsibilities

Reporting directly to the Owner, the Senior VP of Operations will provide high-level oversight and strategic direction to two Area Directors, ensuring operational excellence across all units. Your mandate will be to drive profitability, elevate guest experiences, and maintain the integrity of chef-driven cultures at scale.

Portfolio Management: Oversee the P&L, operational performance, and growth strategy for a $75M portfolio of unique, premium restaurant brands.
Strategic Direction: Translate ownership's vision into actionable operational strategies, setting clear KPIs for Area Directors and unit-level leadership.
Brand Integrity: Uphold the high standards of a chef-driven environment, ensuring that culinary excellence and service precision are maintained across all concepts.
Team Development: Mentor and develop senior management talent, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and high retention.
Financial Performance: Drive EBITDA growth through meticulous cost control, revenue generation strategies, and efficient labor management without compromising the guest experience.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications

We are seeking a seasoned executive who understands the nuances of managing multi-concept, premium operations. The ideal candidate is not just an administrator but a hospitality professional who thrives on the floor and in the boardroom.

Current Senior Leadership: Must currently hold a VP or similar senior-level role within a respected, premium restaurant group.
Premium Segment Experience: proven success in chef-driven, high-volume environments is non-negotiable. Experience with groups like Stephen Starr, Union Square Hospitality Group, or similar is highly aligned with our client's standards.
Financial Acumen: demonstrated ability to manage complex P&Ls, multi-unit budgets, and capital expenditures for a portfolio exceeding $50M.
Strategic Vision: A history of implementing systems and processes that scale effectively while preserving boutique-level quality.

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary: $250,000 - $275,000 (Commensurate with experience)
Performance Incentives: lucrative bonus structure based on profitability and KPI achievement.
Relocation: comprehensive relocation allowance provided for the right candidate.
Growth Potential: clear, defined trajectory to the COO role.
Benefits: full executive benefits package.
Confidentiality & Application

All inquiries and resume submissions will be treated with the utmost strict confidentiality.

To Apply:
Please submit your resume and cover letter directly to Tom Bull at .

Tom Bull is an award-winning recruiter and Managing Partner for the VA/DC office of Gecko Hospitality, specializing in placing top-tier executive talent in the