General Manager - Classic Cinemas York XQ

Classic Cinemas is seeking a dynamic, guest-first leader to oversee operations at the York XQ Theatre in Elmhurst, Illinois as a full-time General Manager. 

The General Manager is responsible for all aspects of theatre operations including team leadership, financial oversight, film presentation, concessions, facility maintenance, marketing execution, and delivering an outstanding guest experience. This role partners closely with the corporate office to ensure company standards are met and guests enjoy the highest quality presentation in a comfortable, clean, welcoming, and low-stress environment.

Our ideal candidate is a natural leader who has demonstrated experience developing talent and managing multiple priorities. You are:

• Guest focused - You communicate effectively, handle guest concerns with calm confidence, and take an active interest in building relationships with your community.
• Adaptable - You plan ahead, but you also think on your feet and problem-solve quickly when situations change.
• Driven - You set clear goals, hold yourself and others accountable, and motivate your team while maintaining a positive work environment.
• An entertainment enthusiast - You genuinely love movies (big and small), keep up with the upcoming slate, and understand what makes a great theatre experience.

 General management

• Oversee day-to-day theatre operations to ensure efficiency,  profitability, and consistent execution of Classic Cinemas standards.
• Manage daily, weekly, and monthly cash controls including balancing drawers, verifying deposits, and ensuring payroll accuracy.
• Communicate, implement, and enforce company policies; partner with the corporate office and report successes and challenges.
• Establish and maintain strong community relationships with neighboring businesses and local organizations/chambers.
• Oversee on-site gift card sales, birthday parties and group bookings, and loyalty program enrollments.

Team leadership

• Recruit, hire, train, develop, motivate, and supervise theatre staff and managers.
• Set expectations for exceptional service; coach in the moment and recognize great performance.
• Schedule theatre staff and management to balance guest service, labor efficiency, and business needs.
• Conduct performance reviews and address performance concerns promptly through coaching, progressive discipline, and when necessary, termination.
• Respond to guest comments and empower managers and team members to resolve concerns professionally and consistently.

Daily operations

• Oversee movie presentation and projection processes; ensure managers are properly trained and that audio/video presentation is flawless.
• Ensure safety and security procedures are in place to protect guests, employees, and company assets; document and report incidents.
• Manage concessions operations including product quality, speed of service, inventory, ordering, sanitation, and equipment upkeep.
• Ensure  proper use, maintenance, and cleaning of all equipment, including projection and concession equipment.
• Coordinate maintenance and housekeeping to maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming facility.
• Inform the Director of Operations in a timely manner of operational, facility, or personnel issues.
• Perform job duties of any theatre position as needed to support the team and guest experience.

Qualifications 

• 2+  years of proven management experience (multi-unit retail, hospitality, food service, or entertainment operations preferred).
• Strong interpersonal, written communication, and public speaking skills.
• Positive attitude with excellent guest service and employee relations skills.
• Highly organized with careful attention to detail and strong follow-through.
• Ability to prioritize and respond quickly to changing business needs.
• High level of drive, energy, initiative, and good judgment.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in stressful situations.
• Willingness to work non-traditional hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

The starting salary range is $45,000–$60,000, with bonus potential, depending on experience.

Benefits and other compensation:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options 
• FSA
• 401(k) retirement plan options
• Vacation time
• Employee movie passes
• Training and development opportunities

Work environment & physical requirements:

This role is performed in a movie theatre environment and includes standing and walking for extended periods, working in auditoriums and back-of-house areas, and occasional lifting/moving of products and supplies. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal opportunity employer

Classic Cinemas is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or any other status protected by applicable law.