Description
Position Overview
At Savannah Riverboat Cruises, we believe dining is more than a meal—it is an experience woven into the rhythm of the river, the charm of the South, and the magic of genuine hospitality.
The Director of Food & Beverage is responsible for shaping and leading all culinary and service experiences across our fleet and dockside events. This role sets the tone for excellence, ensuring each guest enjoys seamless service, exceptional cuisine, and memorable moments from boarding to farewell.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Operational Excellence
-Direct all Food & Beverage operations including dining cruises, specialty events, and dockside experiences.
-Ensure flawless execution of every cruise with a focus on consistency, quality, and timing.
-Maintain the highest standards in food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance.
Guest Experience Leadership
-Champion a guest-first culture rooted in Southern hospitality and elevated service.
-Design and refine immersive dining experiences that complement the riverboat journey.
-Lead service recovery efforts with professionalism and urgency to exceed expectations.
Team Leadership & Development
-Train and develop a high-performing team of managers and crew members.
-Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.
-Lead by example as a visible, hands-on presence during operations.
Culinary & Beverage Innovation
-Collaborate with culinary leadership to develop seasonal buffets and themed dining experiences.
-Elevate presentation and storytelling through menu design, display, and service style.
-Introduce new concepts that enhance revenue and guest satisfaction.
Financial Performance
-Oversee financial performance of all F&B operations.
-Drive revenue growth through strategic pricing, upselling, and event programming.
-Manage cost controls including labor, food cost, and inventory management.
Leadership Expectations
-Inspire teams to deliver exceptional hospitality at every touchpoint.
-Create a culture that reflects pride, professionalism, and positivity.
-Build strong cross-functional partnerships across operations, sales, and marketing.
-Embrace innovation while honoring the heritage and charm of the riverboat experience.
The Savannah Riverboat Difference
Here, every cruise tells a story. From the first welcome aboard to the final farewell, our mission is to create moments guests will remember long after they leave the river.
The Director of Food & Beverage plays a vital role in bringing that story to life—through exceptional cuisine, warm service, and experiences that capture the spirit of Savannah.
Signature Service Standards
Warm, genuine, and anticipatory hospitality.
Attention to detail in every presentation.
Seamless coordination between culinary and service teams.
Commitment to excellence in every guest interaction.
Requirements
Required
-7–10+ years of progressive leadership in Food & Beverage or hospitality
-Experience managing high-volume, multi-outlet operations
-Strong financial and operational acumen
-Proven ability to lead, coach, and inspire teams
Preferred
-Experience in cruise lines, resorts, or experiential dining environments
-Background in event-based or entertainment-driven hospitality
-Degree in Hospitality Management, Business, or related field
