Head of Human Resources and Office Management

Ballyhoo Hospitality is looking for a
Human Resources Manager to join our Corporate team. Founded in 2009 by Ryan and Anna O'Donnell, Ballyhoo Hospitality is a Chicago-based restaurant group operating 15 neighborhood-driven concepts across Chicago and the suburbs. Led today by Ryan O'Donnell and Partner Jon Farrer, Ballyhoo is built on warm, personal hospitality, honest cuisine, and deep community investment.

The group expands intentionally, preserving the individuality of each concept while staying rooted in the belief that great hospitality is shaped by passionate teams, loyal guests, and the neighborhoods they serve. Human Resources Manager
Corporate / Multi-Unit Operations
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Human Resources Manager to support our HR operations and team development as we expand into new markets.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field and at least 3–5 years of human resource management experience, preferably within the hospitality industry. You will be responsible for executing HR policies, driving talent acquisition, managing employee relations, facilitating staff development, and ensuring compliance with employment laws.

Travel Requirement

This position requires significant, hands-on travel to new and existing restaurant locations. Candidates must be flexible and willing to travel for extended periods of time, including trips lasting several weeks at a time, particularly during new restaurant openings and market expansions. Flexibility to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is required.

As the Human Resources Manager, you will work closely with leadership and restaurant operational teams to implement effective HR initiatives, manage staffing needs, and foster a positive, supportive work environment across all locations. Ballyhoo Hospitality is known for bringing feel-good dining, warm service, and innovative yet classic cuisine, personalized to each neighborhood. As one of Chicago’s fastest-growing and most respected restaurant groups, Ballyhoo Hospitality continues to expand its footprint with new concepts.

Comprehensive Benefits: 401(k) with vested employer match, PPO Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance. Implement and execute HR policies, operational processes, and team initiatives across all restaurant locations. Travel to new markets and existing properties to lead on-site onboarding, orientation, and HR setup, remaining on-location for extended periods as needed (up to several weeks at a time). Support full-cycle recruitment, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding for management and hourly staff in new and existing markets.

Manage daily HR workflows and support store managers with timely performance evaluations and employee relations. Administer HR programs including benefits enrollment, leave management, and compensation guidelines. Monitor and enforce compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations across all operating regions. Conduct training sessions for management teams on labor laws, workplace safety, preventing harassment, and company policies. Assist with HR research, labor data reporting, and tracking key organizational metrics.

Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required. At least 3–5 years of progressive human resources experience required (restaurant/hospitality or multi-unit industry experience highly preferred).

Travel Flexibility: Ability and willingness to travel extensively, including extended stays away from home lasting multiple weeks during new restaurant launches or operational integrations.
Strong organizational and time management abilities. High proficiency with HRIS platforms (ADP), talent management systems, and Microsoft Office / Google Workspace.
Thorough understanding of federal, state, and local employment laws.

Extensive Travel: Ability to travel frequently via car, plane, or train, including extended multi-week travel assignments.

Restaurant Operations Navigation: Ability to traverse all areas of the restaurant, including kitchens, dining rooms, stairways, and storage areas during site visits.
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, standing, and walking during shift inspections and on-site openings.
Ability to lift and transport training materials or equipment up to 35–50 pounds. If you are a hands-on HR professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and loves traveling to build great teams, we invite you to apply!
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their relevant multi-unit hospitality and travel experience to brendan@ballyhoohospitality. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.