Queen City Distillery - General Manager

Are you a hands-on leader with a passion for operations, people, and premium spirits? We're a new distillery with ambitious plans for rapid growth, and we’re looking for a General Manager who is ready to take charge and help bring our vision to life. This is a rare opportunity to join at the ground level—shaping day-to-day operations, building and leading a high-performing team, and driving the success of a brand that’s just getting started. From production and logistics to customer experience and team culture, you’ll have a direct impact on every part of the business. If you're entrepreneurial, solutions-focused, and excited by the idea of growing something from scratch, this could be the perfect role for you!

The General Manager is responsible for the overall management, business leadership, development, and supervision of Queen City Distillers. This position provides full-cycle leadership of day-to-day operations and long-term strategy for the business. Reporting to the COO, the General Manager drives revenue growth, maintains rigorous compliance with Saskatchewan Liquor & Gaming Authority (SLGA) regulations, and builds a passionate, high-performing team that delivers outstanding hospitality. The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in both retail and hospitality environments, balances business acumen with a passion for service, and brings operational excellence to every corner of our guest experience.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee day-to-day operations for all locations
• Ensure strong supplier relationships and efficient inventory management
• Analyze sales trends, margins, and pricing strategy
• Optimize inventory levels, purchasing, and receiving; maintain 2-4 % shrink or better.
• Negotiate with suppliers to secure exclusive allocations and favorable terms
• Identify growth opportunities in retail, events, and hospitality
• Champion guest feedback, loyalty, and long-term brand development
• Oversee liquor licensing, food handling permits, occupancy limits, and health inspections
• Maintain safety and cleanliness across all facilities
• Implement and enforce cash handling and security protocols
• Present to all stakeholders, including senior management, as required.
• Management and development of all employees in the division with the goal of building a motivated and

successful workforce focused on long-term success for the company, customers, and employees.

• Establish targets for managers and evaluate their performance through the use of KPIs
• Provide feedback and input into future opportunities and competitive pressures.
• Develop and manage budgets across all operational departments.
• Partner with the Finance team on forecasting and strategic planning.
• Partner with the Marketing team to ensure brand and vision are executed

#LI-Onsite

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations, Hospitality Management, or a related field (MBA preferred)
• Deep working knowledge of SLGA regulations, age-verification, and import rules
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, with experience in both operations and hospitality

strongly preferred


Required Experience

• Proven leadership of multi-unit or multi-department operations with P&L responsibility.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills.
• Strong financial understanding along with cost management, business planning, and goal setting with management.
• A professional and resourceful style; the ability to work independently and as a team player, to lead by example,

take initiative, and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.

• Flexible and adaptable style; a leader who can positively impact both strategic and tactical initiatives while bringing

a strong problem-solving ability to the workplace.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with strong attention to detail and consistent focus on developing and

maintaining good customer relations