DIRECTOR OF RESTAURANTS (Gigi Rigolatto - F/M/X)

ABOUT ORIENT EXPRESS

Orient Express embodies the refined and nomadic spirit of travel. Its exceptional assets portfolio includes experiences such as The Orient Express — its iconic carriages reinvented as a modern-day tribute to French luxury, with ARSENALE Group owner — La Dolce Vita, a train celebrating the elegance of Italian art de vivre, and a collection of luxury hotels opened in Rome – La Minerva – and soon in Venice – Palazzo Dona Giovannelli, and with SILENSEAS - the O.E Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing ship.

While redefining the future of luxury hospitality, Orient Express places particular emphasis on the employee experience, development, and engagement.

As a symbol of ultra-luxury hospitality, the brand is currently undergoing an ambitious phase of rebirth and expansion accelerated since 2024 as a Joint Venture between ACCOR and LVMH.

Now, as Orient Express grows under the steam of its 140-year own glorious reputation and brand, it stands unique and identifiable from the other luxury brands under the ACCOR brands, aiming to become a pioneer of contemporary luxury hospitality, creating immersive experiences that combine exceptional design, impeccable service, culinary excellence, wellness offerings, cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and authentic local experiences, while also actively engaging in local community initiatives and support social causes, making a positive contribution to the destinations its properties operate in. What remains distinctly Orient Express is its spirit of adventure, sublime service and enchanting storytelling. Refreshing and reinvigorating, Orient Express is loved by those with an adventurous spirit and a taste for the very best, linking travel and destinations as part of the same journey.

ABOUT ORIENT EXPRESS LA MINERVA, ROME

Considered as the beloved capital of the Orient Express legend, Rome will be home to the first Orient Express hotel, La Minerva, in 2025. Orient Express, in partnership with the Italian luxury hotel group Arsenale S.p.A, has entrusted the interior architecture and artistic direction of the hotel Hugo Toro. The former Palazzo Fonseca is a sumptuous 17th-century palace with a huge, majestic façade. A place of memory still adorned with its Roman columns, sculptures by Rinaldo Rinaldi, a disciple of Canova, and the fascinating goddess Minerva. At the end of 2024, a new décor and interior inspired by the Roman domus and the riches of the "Eternal City" will be revealed with a new touch of contemporary elegance. 

ABOUT GIGI RIGOLATTO

Gigi Rigolatto is not just a restaurant—it is a destination where Italian elegance meets a vibrant, chic lifestyle. Known for its refined ambiance, stylish crowd, and unforgettable guest experience, Gigi Rigolatto Roma blends tradition with playfulness. As the first point of contact, the Reception Manager embodies the spirit of Gigi and ensures every guest is welcomed with grace, attention, and care.

As Director of restaurants, you will be responsible for the overall performance and reputation of Gigi Rigolatto Roma, reporting to the General Manager of OE La Minerva and in dotted line to Rikas management. You will lead the operational, financial, and experiential success of the restaurants, ensuring every guest leaves with lasting memories. You are a passionate hospitality leader with a strong sense of business, a flair for detail, and the charisma to lead a diverse and talented team.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Brand Standards

• Ensure an exceptional guest journey aligned with Gigi Rigolatto’s lifestyle DNA
• Be the face of the restaurant, actively engaging with VIPs, regulars, and new guests
• Uphold service, ambiance, and presentation standards at all times
• Handle guest feedback with professionalism and care

Team Leadership

• Recruit, train, and inspire a high-performing front and back of house team
• Develop a culture of accountability, teamwork, and empowerment
• Lead daily briefings, service supervision, and team motivation
• Oversee scheduling and manpower planning to ensure optimal coverage

Operational Excellence

• Ensure smooth day-to-day operations in coordination with the Head Chef and department heads
• Oversee opening and closing procedures, inventory control, hygiene, and safety
• Maintain relationships with suppliers and ensure high-quality product sourcing

Financial & Business Management

• Monitor budgets, revenue, and cost controls to achieve financial targets
• Prepare reports on sales, profitability, and operational performance
• Lead strategic initiatives to boost revenue and profitability (e.g., events, collaborations, marketing)

Marketing & Events

• Partner with the marketing team to activate seasonal programming and promotions
• Support brand events and PR activities on-site
• Oversee social media and digital presence in collaboration with central teams

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Director of a restaurant (or senior leadership role) in high-end/lifestyle restaurants
• Business acumen and ability to manage P&L and KPIs
• Strong knowledge of hospitality operations, guest service, and Italian culinary culture
• Curious, team player, caring about guests and employees, attention to details
• Fluent in Italian and English
• Strong and dynamic leadership skills, leading by exemplarity and highly presence on the floor to build up the teams, excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills
• Ability to remain professional and calm in a fast-paced, high volume environment, consistently delivering impeccable and elegant service to our guests
• Flexible schedule and availability on evenings, weekends and holidays
• Excellent grooming, polished appearance, and a natural sense of hospitality
• Proficiency with restaurant management software (e.g., POS, reservations, team planning, time and attendance tools)
• Constant compliance with HACCP, Hotel’s hygiene standards, procedures and code of conduct
• Legal right to work in Italy.