General Manager

Operational Leadership. Team Development. Business Ownership.

Playa Bowls is New Jersey's original acai shop and one of the fastest-growing fast-casual brands in the country, with 300+ locations nationwide and continued expansion planned for 2025. We are seeking a General Manager to lead an upcoming Knoxville location and play a key role in its successful opening and long-term performance.

This is a leadership position for an operator who takes ownership, develops people, and executes with consistency in a fast-paced environment.

Target opening: late February. Start date flexible based on construction timeline.

What We Offer

• Competitive salaried compensation with performance-based growth opportunity
• Structured leadership training and operational support
• Clear career path within a rapidly growing brand
• High-energy, team-oriented culture focused on accountability and positivity
• Employee discounts - free bowl during shifts and discounts when off the clock

Our Culture & Leadership

Playa Bowls is led by operators who believe strong businesses are built through teamwork, preparation, and accountability. Our ownership group brings a high-performance mindset to the brand, shaped by leadership experience from a 9-year NFL career, and applies those principles to building supportive, people-first teams and strong in-store execution.

What You'll Do

As General Manager, you will be fully responsible for the day-to-day and long-term success of the shop.

Leadership & Team Development

• Hire, train, coach, and develop Assistant Managers, Shift Leaders, and Team Members
• Build a positive, accountable, and high-performing team culture
• Lead from the floor and set expectations through example

Operations & Guest Experience

• Ensure food quality, consistency, cleanliness, and brand standards are met daily
• Deliver an exceptional guest experience and resolve concerns professionally
• Maintain compliance with food safety, health, and operational standards

Financial & Business Management

• Manage labor, scheduling, payroll, and controllable costs
• Oversee inventory, ordering, and waste control
• Monitor performance metrics and adjust execution to meet business goals

Execution & Accountability

• Own opening and closing procedures
• Ensure accuracy in cash handling and operational reporting
• Step in as needed to support service, prep, or team execution

What Success Looks Like

• A well-trained, engaged, and accountable team
• Labor and operations consistently within target
• Strong guest satisfaction and repeat business
• Trust and autonomy to operate the shop as your own business

What We're Looking For

• Proven leadership experience in restaurant, retail, or hospitality management
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage people, processes, and priorities simultaneously
• A hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment
• Passion for hospitality, team development, and operational excellence

Schedule & Expectations

• Full-time leadership role
• Typically 40–50 hours per week, including weekends and holidays
• Schedule adjusts to meet the needs of the business and team

Requirements

• Ability to pass Playa Bowls Food Safety Certification within 3 months
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25–40 lbs
• Must meet company performance and operational expectations

Our Mission

Inspire and support our communities — one bowl at a time.

Our Values:

Real Deal
• Playa Passion
• Powerhouse
• Big Wave Chaser
• Dawn Patrol

Playa Bowls is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, performance, and business needs.

Pay: $45, $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Paid training

Work Location: In person