Restaurant HR Strategist

We are seeking a seasoned HR professional with 8–10 years of experience to lead the Human Resources function for restaurant operations.

• Strategic HR Leadership
• Develop and implement HR strategies to support restaurant operations and expansion.
• Act as a strategic business partner to management on workforce planning and organizational development.
• Lead HR planning for multiple outlets/locations (if applicable).

Talent Acquisition & Retention

• Oversee recruitment of leadership, kitchen staff, and service personnel.
• Build and maintain a strong talent pipeline for restaurant operations.
• Drive employee retention through engagement, recognition, and career development initiatives.

Employee Relations & Culture

• Manage employee relations, grievances, and disciplinary procedures.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and customer-focused work environment.
• Implement engagement programs to build employee loyalty.

Performance & Development

• Design and monitor performance management systems.
• Implement structured training, learning, and development programs.
• Mentor and coach managers to build strong leadership teams.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with labor laws, statutory requirements, and industry-specific regulations.
• Develop and update HR policies in line with legal and organizational needs.
• Conduct periodic audits for HR processes and payroll.

Compensation & Benefits

• Oversee payroll accuracy, salary benchmarking, and benefits administration.
• Recommend compensation strategies to attract and retain top talent.

Key Requirements

• Education: MBA/PGDM in HR or equivalent qualification.
• Experience: 8–10 years of HR management experience, preferably in restaurants, hospitality, or F&B industry.
• Proven track record of managing HR for mid-to-large teams across multiple outlets.
• Strong knowledge of labor laws, compliance, and HR best practices.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic thinker with hands-on execution capability.
• Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• People-centric, approachable, and solution-oriented.

4. Compensation & Benefits:

• Administer employee benefits programs, handle inquiries, and ensure accurate record-keeping.
• Assist in developing and implementing competitive compensation and benefits packages to enhance employee retention.
• Process payroll accurately and on time, considering overtime, holidays, and shift differentials.
• Maintain up-to-date payroll and payment records.

5. Policy Development & Compliance:

• Develop, implement, and update HR policies and procedures in compliance with all federal, state, and local labor laws and industry standards.
• Ensure the restaurant staff complies with all relevant regulations, including health and safety standards, wage and hour laws, and anti-discrimination laws.
• Maintain employee records and ensure compliance with data privacy regulations.
• Stay informed about changes in labor laws and HR best practices.

6. Performance Management:

• Support the performance management process, including goal setting, performance evaluations, and coaching.
• Assist management in addressing performance issues and implementing improvement strategies.

7. Workforce Planning & Administration:

• Collaborate with management on workforce planning, forecasting staffing needs, and optimizing scheduling.
• Oversee employee attendance and working schedules, including breaks, overtime, and paid time off.
• Maintain accurate and organized employee records and documentation.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Psychology, or a related field.
• Experience:
• Proven experience as an HR Manager or in a similar HR role, preferably within the restaurant or hospitality industry.
• Hands-on experience with recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and payroll administration.
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations relevant to the hospitality sector.
• Skills:
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written).
• Strong understanding of HRIS and payroll software.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Exceptional problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Adept at building relationships and fostering a positive work environment.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.