About After
Located in Chicago’s West Loop, After is a critically acclaimed cocktail bar from Chef Curtis Duffy. Known for high-craft cocktails rooted in precision and boundary-pushing technique, After offers an elevated yet accessible experience in a sleek setting. The bar features seasonal beverages, inventive bar snacks and creative plates, and a laid-back, come-as-you-are energy that encourages great music, genuine connection, and warm, welcoming service.
Semi-private and private event spaces—including the Soundbooth, B‑Side, and Canvas—accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to receptions for up to 100-150 guests.
Role Overview
We’re seeking a dynamic, detail-oriented General Manager to lead daily operations atAfter, ensuring a seamless guest experience and smooth execution of both cocktail service and events. This is a highly visible leadership position with full ownership of service delivery, team culture, and event coordination.
We’re looking for a servant leader—someone who leads by example, puts the team first, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves. This role requires humility, consistency, and a long-term mindset. We’re not looking for show ponies; we’re building a team of workhorses—committed individuals dedicated to growing within the Ever Restaurant Group.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead daily bar operations, ensuring hospitality excellence that reflects After’s high-craft, low-key philosophy and commitment to guest satisfaction
- Recruit, train, coach, and mentor FOH staff to consistently deliver cocktail-driven guest experiences with warmth, professionalism, and teamwork
- Develop staff schedules that optimize labor efficiency while maintaining excellent service levels, in partnership with beverage and service leadership
- Manage operational costs including labor, inventory, and supplies to meet budget goals without compromising quality
- Serve as the primary on-site leader during daily service and private events, handling guest relations, resolving issues, and ensuring smooth execution from start to finish
- Collaborate closely with culinary and bar teams to integrate offerings during menu transitons, service, and curated events
- Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant environment by enforcing health, safety, and sanitation standards according to local regulations and company policies
- Foster a positive team culture through clear communication, ongoing training, and conflict resolution, promoting accountability and shared success
- Monitor guest feedback and operational metrics to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and implement service enhancements
- Support marketing efforts by assisting with special promotions, social media activations, and community engagement initiatives as needed
Ideal Qualifications
3+ years of general management experience in a high-volume cocktail bar or concept-driven venue
Proven success managing private events or overseeing third-party functions
A polished yet approachable leadership style; confident in fast-paced, guest-centric environments
Proficiency with POS and reservation platforms (Tock, Open Table, Toast, Triple Seat, etc.), as well as scheduling and HR tools
Strong operational instincts, including cost management, forecasting, and labor optimization
A passion for cocktail culture, seasonal ingredients, and storytelling through hospitality
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)
Performance-based bonus/commission opportunities
Health insurance, PTO, and dining benefits
Career growth potential within the Ever Restaurant Group
To Apply
Please submit your resume along with a cover letter that includes:
Your leadership experience in cocktail-forward or boutique hospitality environments
Your approach to event execution and guest service excellence
Why After feels like the right fit for your energy, leadership style, and hospitality philosophy
Cheers,
Ever Restaurant Group
More detail about After Lounge part of Ever Restaurant & After Lounge, please visit