Position Title: Front of House Manager
Reports to: General Manager
The Last Picture House is seeking a Front of House Manager to assist the operations of a boutique two-screen cinema, rooftop bar, and social lounge in the heart of the Quad Cities metropolitan region on the Iowa/Illinois border.
Co-owned by Iowa filmmakers Scott Beck & Bryan Woods — best known as the creators of A Quiet Place and A24’s Heretic — the theater blends first-run film programming with arthouse, cult, and classic cinema. It also features a creative cocktail lounge and a steady rotation of exclusive events with directors, actors, writers, and other industry guests. The Last Picture House fills a unique cultural niche in the Quad Cities, offering an artistic hub for audiences of all ages and tastes.
OVERVIEW
The Front of House (FOH) Manager assumes responsibility for overseeing all guest-facing operations, ensuring an exceptional experience for every patron of The Last Picture House. This leadership position necessitates the direct management of the FOH team, encompassing concession staff, bar team members, shift leads, and bar leads. The FOH Manager is tasked with the execution of sales generation, efficient and effective inventory management, rigorous control of labor costs, performance of foundational human resource functions with support from the General Manager, adherence to the highest standards of cleanliness and service quality, and ensuring comprehensive compliance with all health, safety, and alcohol regulations. This critical leadership role involves direct collaboration with the General Manager and Assistant General Manager to ensure strategic alignment with the overarching objectives and goals of The Last Picture House, while also requiring collaboration across all functional areas pertaining to theater and event operations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Guest Experience & Operations
Ensure the highest level of guest satisfaction, resolving complex guest issues professionally and efficiently, and creating a positive experience that aligns with The Last Picture House brand.
Oversee all daily FOH operations, concessions, bar, rooftop bar and theater, restrooms, common areas, and auditorium presentation.
Assist with Managing and execution of special events guest flow, seating, and special events to ensure smooth operations during peak times.
Maintain the theater's physical appearance, ensuring all public areas are clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing.
Recruit, train, coach, and schedule the FOH team, including bar leads, shift leads, concessionists, and bartenders.
Conduct regular performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and feedback to team members. Provide corrective action and performance improvement plans when necessary.
Lead by example, promoting a positive, high-energy, and professional work environment.
Ensure all staff are knowledgeable about current movie showtimes, concession/bar offerings, and theater policies.
Manage cash handling procedures for concessions and bars, ensuring accuracy and security.
Monitor labor costs and operational expenses to meet budgetary goals.
Oversee inventory management for concessions and the bar, ensuring optimal stock levels, minimizing waste, and managing vendor relationships.
Develop and implement strategies to drive sales for concessions, merchandise, and bar revenue.
Ensure strict compliance with all local and state laws regarding alcohol service (e.g., Basset/ServSafe Alcohol certification).
Ensure strict compliance with all local and state laws regarding the sale of THC drinks
Maintain all health and sanitation standards in concessions and bar areas, adhering to guidelines provided by Scott County Health Department.
Act as the primary point of contact for emergency situations, ensuring the safety of guests and team members.
Conduct regular safety inspections and training with all front of house team members including concessions, bar, bar leads, and shift leads.
Skills: Demonstrated strong capabilities in leadership, communication, coaching, and problem-solving.
Financial/Operational Knowledge: Proven experience managing profit and loss (P&L), inventory control, and labor cost management.
Availability: Must have flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Certifications