Director of Food & Beverage

Food & Beverage Director

Unicoi State Park & Lodge – Helen, Georgia

Unicoi State Park & Lodge is seeking an experienced and dynamic Food & Beverage Director to lead all dining, banquet, catering, and beverage operations across our premier destination property. This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate hospitality leader to oversee a diverse, high-volume food & beverage program while shaping memorable guest experiences in the heart of North Georgia’s mountains.

From our signature outlets, Smith Creek Tavern and Anna’s Italian, to weddings, conferences, and large-scale events, this role is instrumental in delivering operational excellence, financial performance, and elevated service standards across the property.

Position Overview

The Food & Beverage Director provides strategic and operational leadership for all food and beverage functions throughout the Lodge. This senior leadership role is responsible for driving profitability, enhancing guest satisfaction, developing high-performing teams, and ensuring exceptional execution across multiple outlets and event operations.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong business acumen, a passion for hospitality, and the ability to inspire excellence in a fast-paced resort environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee all restaurant, bar, banquet, catering, and event operations across the property
• Lead, mentor, and develop managers and team members to foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and outstanding guest service
• Partner with culinary leadership to develop innovative menus, seasonal offerings, and elevated dining experiences
• Monitor and improve operational performance, guest satisfaction, and service quality standards
• Manage departmental budgeting, forecasting, labor controls, purchasing, inventory, and overall financial performance
• Analyze financial reports and implement strategies to maximize revenue and profitability
• Ensure compliance with all company standards, health regulations, safety procedures, and licensing requirements
• Collaborate with Executive Leadership and department teams to enhance the overall guest experience throughout the Lodge
• Maintain strong vendor relationships and oversee cost-effective purchasing programs
• Support and execute banquet, wedding, and group event operations at a high level of excellence

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Food & Beverage Director or senior F&B leader within a resort, lodge, hotel, or multi-outlet hospitality environment
• Strong leadership, organizational, and team development skills
• Demonstrated success managing budgets, financial performance, and operational efficiencies
• Experience overseeing multiple dining concepts and large banquet or catering operations
• Exceptional communication and guest relations abilities
• Ability to lead strategically while remaining actively engaged in day-to-day operations
• Passion for hospitality, service excellence, and creating memorable guest experiences

Why Join Unicoi State Park & Lodge?

• Lead a diverse and exciting food & beverage operation within one of Georgia’s most unique hospitality destinations
• Work alongside a collaborative leadership team committed to excellence and innovation
• Influence both daily operations and long-term food & beverage strategy
• Competitive compensation package with growth opportunities and performance-based incentives
• Enjoy the natural beauty and unique atmosphere of North Georgia while building your hospitality career

At Unicoi State Park & Lodge, hospitality is more than service — it’s creating unforgettable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors. If you are ready to bring vision, leadership, and operational excellence to a destination property, we invite you to apply and become part of our leadership team.