General Manager
About the job
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Previous experience as a General Manager or equivalent is required.
- Ability to listen effectively and give and take direction.
- Ability to work under pressure while meeting tight deadlines.
- Comfort with computers and functions expected of a manager.
- Good communication, organizational, and time-management skills, and ability to recognize and solve problems.
- Ability to speak, read, follow, write, and comprehend instructions, correspondence, and policy documents.
- Ability to work effectively in a diverse workforce.
- Ability to set goals and convert plans into action.
- Ability to safely operate commercial equipment.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced restaurant environment, including walking, bending, twisting, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, pushing, pulling, and moving objects up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as business requires.
- Reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and current auto insurance.
- Lead the restaurant strategically, focusing on excellent customer service, delicious food, team development, and high-quality restaurant operations.
- Train and develop the Assistant General Manager and Kitchen Manager on a daily basis.
- Maintain high standards in restaurant operations, including cleanliness and safety.
- Take full responsibility for food, bar, and hospitality operations, including guest feedback.
- Coach and train the team to execute catering and off-premise service excellently and drive revenue.
- Maintain the facility, including cleanliness, preventative maintenance, and repairs.
- Manage sales forecasting, labor scheduling, inventory, and administration.
- Manage the full profit and loss statement, building sales, managing expenses, and improving operating efficiencies.
- Build local relationships and conduct community marketing.
- Recruit team members; interview, hire, and onboard them.
- Lead and develop the team and serve as an example for culture, compensation, and recognition.
- Plan succession and recruit leaders.
- Support retention through culture, compensation, and recognition.
- Make hiring decisions and establish career paths for team members and management.
- Manage performance and evaluate the team.
- Ensure team development by appreciating, connecting with, respecting, and growing team members.
About the company
Illegal Pete's operates as a fast-casual restaurant chain in Colorado and Arizona, serving Mission-style burritos, bowls, tacos, salads, nachos, and queso, with a full bar and local craft beers. Its food is prepared with responsibly sourced, high-quality ingredients and is served in a counter-service format, with locations designed to foster a social, neighborhood atmosphere including live music, comedy shows, and other events. What sets Illegal Pete's apart is its community focus: it partners with local arts through initiatives like the Starving Artists program that offers free meals to touring musicians, runs a record label, and uses historic buildings for its stores while keeping full control without franchising. Employee welfare is emphasized through a living wage, health benefits, and a 401K. The company aims to be a local gathering place that blends good food, live arts, and community connection while growing in a manageable, community-centered way.
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Denver, Colorado
Founded
1995
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Illegal Pete's added Taco Night in January 2025, its first menu change in 15 years.
- By April 2026, the chain listed 14 locations, including Wheat Ridge and Boulder expansion.
- Loyalty app V.I. Pete's and full bars support repeat visits and higher check sizes.
What critics are saying
- The name still fuels boycott pressure; UA activists targeted Tucson in 2024.
- Colorado Springs opened April 2024 after two-year delays, exposing execution fragility.
- Limited scale outside Colorado leaves Arizona dependence and weak bargaining power versus Chipotle.
What makes Illegal Pete's unique
- Pete Turner kept family-owned control since 1995, avoiding franchise dilution.
- Illegal Pete's pairs Mission-style burritos with full bars and live-music events.
- Historic building reuse and neighborhood programming create a locally rooted brand identity.
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Benefits
- Health Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Sick Leave
- Remote Work Options
- Hybrid Work Options
- Stock Options
- Company Equity
- Wellness Program
- Mental Health Support
- Gym Membership
- Phone/Internet Stipend