Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer – Sleepy Bee Café, Cincinnati, OH

Are you a visionary leader with a drive for operational excellence and strategic growth? Have you guided teams through transformation, innovation, or expansion in the restaurant or hospitality industry? Join Sleepy Bee Café and help shape the future of our multi‑location group!

As the Chief Operating Officer, you will oversee all daily operations of the Sleepy Bee restaurant locations, ensuring exceptional guest experience, operational efficiency, and profitability. The COO will drive strategic initiatives, maintain high standards of food quality and service, and foster a positive workplace culture.

• Recruit, train, and mentor restaurant managers and key staff
• Organize and oversee work schedules for all restaurant management and staff
• Conduct timely and constructive performance evaluations
• Handle discipline and termination of employees as needed in accordance with company policy
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll, including wages, deductions, and compliance with applicable laws
• Compare sales and profit projections to actual figures; adjust future projections and budgets as needed
• Analyze operations to identify areas for reorganization, cost savings, or expansion
• Ensure sound financial structure and funding for the company’s mission and goals
• Establish and monitor metrics for guest satisfaction, food quality, and operational efficiency
• Review, analyze, and optimize restaurant procedures, including kitchen operations, front‑of‑house service, and inventory management
• Implement policies and procedures to improve daily restaurant operations and guest experience
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards
• Oversee purchasing, inventory, and vendor relationships to ensure quality and cost control
• Plan, direct, and manage budgets, cost of goods sold, and labor costs to achieve financial objectives
• Communicate new directives, policies, or procedures to managers and staff; lead meetings to explain changes and maintain morale
• Set parameters for recruitment, training, and advancement within the restaurant
• Drive improvements in customer service and satisfaction through policy and procedural changes
• Coordinate efforts among kitchen, service, and support teams to ensure smooth workflow and cost‑effective processes
• Project a positive image of the restaurant to employees, guests, and the community

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Finance, or related field preferred
• Extensive background with at least 8 years of restaurant or hospitality management and financial management experience
• Deep understanding of restaurant operations, hospitality, and food service best practices
• Thorough understanding of business, finance, and operational practices
• Superior verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong leadership, managerial, and diplomacy skills
• Proficiency in restaurant management software and Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong analytical, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to lead and inspire teams across multiple locations

• Prolonged periods standing and walking throughout the restaurant
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times
• Works flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Must be able to travel to all restaurant locations

Sleepy Bee is a breakfast and brunch restaurant rooted in Cincinnati, inspired by a love of local food and the small things that make a big impact. The story began over 30 years ago when founder Sandy Gross sought farm‑to‑table restaurants and longed for one in Cincinnati. In 2013, she partnered with renowned chef Frances Kroner to bring that vision to life.

Together, they built a restaurant that nourishes guests while benefiting the environment and the community. By sourcing from local farms, cooking with seasonal ingredients, and designing with care, Sleepy Bee celebrates sustainability, hospitality, creativity, and community. Today, Sleepy Bee remains locally owned and proudly rooted in Cincinnati, where families and friends gather daily to enjoy thoughtful food, inspired design, and a shared sense of purpose.

Apply online today to join a great team!