Who We Are

Gravy Train Restaurant Management is a premier restaurant management company that oversees a diverse portfolio of dining establishments. We are currently seeking a dynamic District Manager to join our team. This role will be responsible for overseeing operations at multiple Pizza Ranch® locations, driving growth, and ensuring excellence across our network.

As the District Manager, you will be a part of Gravy Train’s mission to build thriving restaurants and cultivate successful teams. While your focus will be on Pizza Ranch®, a fast-casual restaurant brand specializing in pizza, chicken, salad, and dessert buffets, you will represent Gravy Train’s core values and commitment to operational excellence. Pizza Ranch® has grown to over 200 locations in fifteen states and is dedicated to providing a legendary experience through quality food, service, and community engagement.

Please note: Candidates must reside in Missouri or Illinois and be within driving distance of our restaurant locations.

If you are a results-driven leader with a passion for people and a track record of success in multi-unit restaurant management, we would love to have you join our Gravy Train team!

Job Description:

As a District Manager at Gravy Train Restaurant Management, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the operations and profitability of approximately six Pizza Ranch locations within your assigned district in Iowa/Illinois. You will be responsible for ensuring that each Pizza Ranch restaurant maintains the highest standards of quality, service, and cleanliness while driving revenue growth and profitability. This role requires a commitment of at least 50 hours per week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership: Provide guidance, support, and leadership to restaurant General Managers and their teams to ensure consistent execution of operational standards and procedures.

• Financial Management: Develop and execute strategic plans to drive sales growth, manage expenses, and maximize profitability across all restaurants in the district.

• People Development: Recruit, train, mentor, and develop high-performing teams to deliver exceptional customer service and achieve operational excellence.

• Quality Assurance: Uphold Pizza Ranch's commitment to quality by ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and brand guidelines.

• Customer Experience: Foster a culture of hospitality and guest satisfaction by monitoring customer feedback, addressing concerns, and implementing initiatives to enhance the dining experience.

• Inventory Management: Oversee inventory levels, food costs, and supply chain logistics to minimize waste and optimize inventory turnover.

• Labor Management: Oversee sales forecasting, schedule writing, overtime, and hiring.

• Marketing and Promotions: Collaborate with the marketing department to implement local marketing initiatives, promotional campaigns, and community engagement activities to drive traffic and increase brand awareness.

• Performance Analysis: Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial metrics to evaluate restaurant performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop action plans to address areas of concern.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business, hospitality, or related field (preferred)

• Proven experience in multi-unit restaurant management, preferably in the quick-service or casual dining industry

• Strong leadership abilities with a track record of building and developing high-performing teams

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities

• Knowledge of restaurant operations, financial management, and industry best practices

• Willingness to travel within the assigned district and work flexible hours as needed

• Must reside in Iowa or Illinois and be within driving distance of our restaurant locations

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives

• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package

• Retirement savings plan (401k) with company match

• Paid time off and holiday pay

• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development within a growing organization

Join Gravy Train Restaurant Management and be part of a team dedicated to driving operational excellence and supporting restaurant teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences. If you're passionate about hospitality, thrive on achieving results, and are ready to elevate your career, we want to hear from you. Apply now to become our next District Manager and help us continue making a positive impact in the communities we serve.

Company Overview

Pizza Ranch® Inc. began as a single restaurant in Hull, Iowa, in 1981 and has since grown into a leading fast-casual franchise with over 200 locations across fifteen states. Known for our legendary pizza, crispy chicken, fresh salad bar, and delicious dessert buffet, we offer an exceptional dining experience through dine-in, takeout, and delivery services.

At Pizza Ranch, we are driven by a powerful mission:

"To establish every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives."

If you are a passionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, values community impact, and excels in delivering exceptional guest experiences, we want you to join our team!

Position Summary

The Assistant General Manager (AGM) plays a vital role in the restaurant’s success, supporting the General Manager in daily operations, team leadership, and guest satisfaction. This role is perfect for someone who is passionate about hospitality, team development, and business operations.

As an AGM, you will:

• Support & Lead: Assist in building and developing a high-performing team that consistently delivers legendary guest experiences.
• Ensure Operational Excellence: Help oversee restaurant operations, ensuring high food quality, exceptional service, and a welcoming environment.
• Enhance the Guest Experience: Utilize guest feedback and Qualtrics data to drive continuous improvement in service and satisfaction.
• Drive Business Success: Work alongside the General Manager to control food and labor costs while maximizing sales and profitability.
• Foster a Positive Team Culture: Support and motivate employees, promoting teamwork, accountability, and growth.
• Be a Community Leader: Represent Pizza Ranch as a trusted community partner, fostering relationships and giving back locally.

This is a full-time position that requires availability during evenings and weekends.

Key Responsibilities (include, but are not limited to):

Guest Satisfaction

• Ensure each guest receives a legendary dining experience.
• Handle guest feedback with professionalism and a problem-solving approach.
• Maintain high standards in food quality, cleanliness, and service.
• Assist in community engagement efforts to strengthen Pizza Ranch’s presence locally.

Business & Financial Management

• Support sales growth and profitability through effective operations management.
• Help monitor and manage food, labor, and operational costs.
• Assist in controlling costs related to food, labor, and operations.

Team Leadership & Development

• Assist in recruiting, training, and developing team members.
• Set clear expectations and provide regular coaching and feedback.
• Lead by example, fostering a team-oriented, positive work environment.

 Operational Excellence

• Maintain compliance with health, safety, and brand standards.
• Oversee daily operational procedures to maintain efficiency.
• Ensure proper inventory management and cost control.

Qualifications, Skills, and/or Competencies:

• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license
• Passion for leading and developing people
• Proven record of management, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize multiple situations
• Effective communicator and listener with strong oral and written communication skills
• Restaurant management experience (preferred)
• Proficient in basic computer skills
• High school graduate or equivalent education
• Possess business acumen

Why Join Pizza Ranch?

• Competitive Pay & Bonus Potential 
• Leadership Growth 
• Positive & Family-Oriented Culture 
• Impact Your Community 

 If you’re ready to lead with purpose, make a difference, and take your career to the next level, apply today!

Who We Are
Founded in Hull, Iowa in 1981, Pizza Ranch® has grown from a single location into one of the nation’s premier fast-casual restaurant chains. With over 200 locations across thirteen states, our concept combines a crave-worthy buffet of pizza, crispy ranch chicken, salads, desserts, and a full-service delivery and takeout model—all designed to serve up legendary experiences.

At the heart of Pizza Ranch is our mission:
"To establish every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; and where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives."

We believe in positively impacting every guest, team member, and community we serve. If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced, people-focused environment and enjoys making a difference through food, service, and leadership—this is the place for you.

Job Summary:

As a Guest Services Manager, you are a key member of the management team and play a vital role in delivering the Pizza Ranch experience. You’ll lead by example, helping to build a strong team culture, ensure high food and service standards, and drive successful operations during high-volume shifts—especially nights and weekends.

You’ll assist the General Manager & Assistant General Manager in day-to-day restaurant operations and help lead the guest experience using data and feedback from tools like Qualtrics. You’ll also have responsibilities across multiple operational areas to ensure smooth, safe, and guest-focused execution.

Key Responsibilities Include, but Are Not Limited To:

• Lead and support restaurant operations during peak periods 
• Execute and uphold Pizza Ranch food quality and guest service standards
• Assist with food ordering and maintaining proper inventory levels
• Conduct regular cleanliness, safety, and maintenance walkthroughs
• Interview, hire, and onboard new team members
• Provide coaching and apply progressive discipline when necessary
• Analyze guest feedback and implement improvements using Qualtrics and other tools
• Collaborate with the management team to control food and labor costs
• Model a positive and professional attitude with staff and guests
• Contribute to a team culture that promotes respect, accountability, and excellence
• Lead training and development efforts to ensure team success

Expectations:

• Improve food quality and guest satisfaction metrics
• Successfully manage and lead high-volume rush shifts
• Drive a culture of safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence
• Demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills
• Be available to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Qualifications:

• Prior restaurant management experience preferred
• Strong leadership and team-building skills
• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities
• Proficiency in basic computer applications
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment
• Passion for hospitality and people development

If you’re ready to grow your leadership skills and make a legendary impact, we invite you to apply and be part of something special at Pizza Ranch®.

Who We Are
Founded in Hull, Iowa in 1981, Pizza Ranch® has grown from a single location into one of the nation’s premier fast-casual restaurant chains. With over 200 locations across thirteen states, our concept combines a crave-worthy buffet of pizza, crispy ranch chicken, salads, desserts, and a full-service delivery and takeout model—all designed to serve up legendary experiences.

At the heart of Pizza Ranch is our mission:
"To establish every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; and where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives."

We believe in positively impacting every guest, team member, and community we serve. If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced, people-focused environment and enjoys making a difference through food, service, and leadership—this is the place for you.

The Role: Kitchen Manager
As a Kitchen Manager, you’re more than just a culinary leader—you’re the driving force behind our food quality, kitchen operations, and back-of-house team culture. You’ll lead by example, helping create a high-performing environment that consistently delivers outstanding food and guest satisfaction. You’ll support the General Manager & Assistant General Manager in running day-to-day operations while ensuring food standards, safety, and cleanliness stay top-tier.

This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who can jump in during high-volume dinner and weekend rushes, motivate a team, and keep everything running like a well-oiled machine.

Key Responsibilities Include (but are not limited to):

• Oversee daily kitchen operations to ensure food quality, cleanliness, and speed of service
• Conduct regular inventory and manage food ordering to meet budget and demand
• Perform routine safety and cleanliness walkthroughs and uphold food safety protocols
• Interview, hire, and train back-of-house team members
• Implement and enforce progressive discipline when needed
• Assist with labor and food cost control strategies
• Use Qualtrics guest feedback data to identify areas for improvement
• Lead by example during peak hours, especially nights and weekends, by working the line and engaging with the team
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant kitchen that meets local and company standards
• Collaborate with the management team to ensure smooth shift transitions and team alignment

What We Expect:

• Increase food quality and presentation standards
• Uphold guest service expectations in every back-of-house interaction
• Actively work and lead during high-volume night and weekend rushes
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and professionalism
• Identify and develop team members for future leadership roles

What You Bring to the Table:

• A passion for food quality, cleanliness, and team development
• Proven experience in restaurant or kitchen management (preferred)
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to multitask in a high-energy environment
• Proficiency in basic computer skills and kitchen management systems
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• A drive to serve others and a positive leadership attitude

Join the Pizza Ranch team and become part of something legendary. Apply today and help us serve up food and experiences.