DSOD Division Manager

Location Type: On-site

 

Description

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Dining Service Operations Division Manager to lead the U.S. operations of a Japanese restaurant corporation. The Division Manager will be responsible for driving strategic growth, overseeing multi-unit operations, and ensuring operational excellence across all functions. This position will lead initiatives related to new store openings, budget planning, and continuous improvement of existing store performance.

The ideal candidate will possess deep industry experience, cultural fluency in Japanese business and hospitality standards, and a proven track record of executive leadership in the restaurant or food service industry. The Division Manager will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, external partners, and corporate leadership in Japan to strengthen brand presence, ensure financial performance, and cultivate an exceptional customer experience rooted in Japanese service culture.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end planning and execution of new store openings, including site selection, design, construction, staffing, and launch
• Oversee cross-functional teams and ensure alignment with timelines, budgets, brand standards, and operational readiness
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure successful store launches
• Develop, manage, and oversee annual operating budgets across all business units
• Monitor financial performance and lead variance analysis, identifying areas for cost optimization and revenue growth
• Present regular financial reports and strategic recommendations to stakeholders
• Evaluate existing store operations and implement initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and profitability
• Standardize processes while adapting to local market needs and customer preferences
• Drive employee performance, training, and adherence to operational standards
• Identify new property opportunities in alignment with expansion strategies
• Negotiate lease terms, manage property-related contracts, and oversee legal and compliance processes
• Foster strong relationships with landlords, developers, and brokers
• Collaborate with culinary and marketing teams to plan and launch menu innovations and seasonal promotions
• Align offerings with customer trends and brand identity while honoring Japanese culinary traditions
• Provide on-site leadership and support to store teams to ensure operational consistency
• Stay connected to frontline operations and foster a strong company culture
• Serve as a brand ambassador and model of Japanese hospitality
• Other related tasks.

Requirements

• Proven experience as Operations Director or senior executive in the restaurant or hospitality industry preferably in Japanese cooperation environment.
• Proven success in scaling multi-unit restaurant operations across the U.S.
• Ability to lead with a clear strategic vision while balancing operational realities and long-term growth goals
• Experience working directly with a Board of Directors or Japanese parent company is a plus
• Understanding of U.S. food trends, health regulations, labor laws, and customer behavior
• Knowledge of Japanese cuisine, dining culture, and presentation expectations is highly preferred
• Expertise in scaling operations, building infrastructure, and improving unit-level performance
• Knowledge of restaurant technologies (POS systems, analytics tools, online ordering, etc.)
• Promotes a healthy, inclusive workplace culture blending American labor values and Japanese hospitality
• Capable of evolving the brand for U.S. market trends without compromising authenticity
• Strong command of financial management: P&L, budgeting, cost control, ROI, and unit economics
• Ability to identify and drive revenue opportunities while managing operational costs
• Experience in market expansion (new store openings, franchising, or regional rollouts)
• Able to evaluate new locations, partnerships, or menu innovation for growth potential
• Japanese language ability is a strong asset; fluent English communication is essential

Work Environment:

• Indoor (Artificial Lighting; Air Conditioned)
• Outdoor (Store parking area)
• Noise Level is moderate

Physical Demands:

Physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical DemandsLift/Carry:StandC (Constantly)10 lbs. or less C (Constantly) WalkC (Constantly)11-20 lbs.C (Constantly) SitO (Occasionally)21-50 lbs.F (Frequently) Handling/FingeringC (Constantly) 51-100 lbs.N (Not Applicable)Reaching OutwardF (Frequently) Over 100 lbs.N (Not Applicable)Reach Above ShoulderF (Frequently) Push/Pull: ClimbO (Occasionally)12 lbs. or lessC (Constantly) CrawlO (Occasionally)13 – 25 lbs. F (Frequently) Squat or KneelF (Frequently) 26 -40 lbs.F (Frequently) BendF (Frequently) 41-100 lbs.N (Not Applicable)
N (Not Applicable) Activity is not applicable to this occupation.

O (Occasionally) Occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0-2.5+ hrs./day)

F (Frequently) Occupation requires this activity from 33% – 66% of the time (2.5 – 5.5+ hrs./day).

C (Constantly) Occupation requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+ hrs./day)

[50%] Project management related to new store openings
[15%] Improving and managing existing store operations
[15%] New property development and contract management
[10%] Menu and sales promotion management
[10%] Store practical support

Other Physical Requirements:

• Vision (Near, Distance, Color, Peripheral, Depth Perception)
• Sense of Sound (Hear oral communication and buzzers/alarms)

Experience in running a Japanese restaurant business
Experience in accounting, management accounting, financial accounting, etc.
Knowledge of fresh fish, distribution of fresh produce, safety and hygiene, and various practical skills

The Company has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee’s ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the Company may deem appropriate.