Director of Talent Development

Director of Talent Development

About the Role

At Newport Restaurant Group (NRG), we believe our people are our greatest recipe for success. As our next Director of Talent Development, you’ll be the architect of programs that grow, engage, and empower our hospitality teams to deliver exceptional results. With 17 locations across Rhode Island and Massachusetts — and continued growth ahead — this is a pivotal moment to shape the future of our workforce.

This is a strategic, people-focused leadership role within the Human Resources department — perfect for a tenured talent development hospitality professional who understands how learning, engagement, and leadership growth drive business performance. You’ll design and implement enterprise-wide development strategies that build capability, strengthen succession pipelines, and enhance employee experience at every level of our organization.

You’ll lead a Hospitality Training Manager and partner closely with senior and executive leadership to align all learning and development initiatives with company strategy — ensuring our people have the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive and grow with NRG.

About You

You’re a strategic HR leader coming from an operations background with deep expertise in hospitality training and talent development. Your work centers on unlocking potential, cultivating leadership excellence, and aligning people growth with business strategy. You pair innovation with data-driven rigor to craft development programs that deliver measurable impact across the organization.

You understand the rhythm of a dynamic, service-driven organization and how to create scalable programs that meet the needs of a diverse workforce. You are a connector, collaborator, and coach who can inspire others and drive cultural alignment through people development.

Requirements to thrive in this role:

• 10+ years of Training & Development experience with progressive leadership responsibility.
• Career focused on HR or organizational development
• Restaurant operations and hospitality industry experience required – you are currently rooted in strategic development, but an operator at heart
• Proven ability to translate business strategy into development frameworks that drive performance and retention at the organization level.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills with the ability to engage leaders at all levels.
• Experience leveraging data, technology, and learning platforms to measure impact and continuously improve programs.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to influence across departments and guide teams toward shared goals.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary: $140,000–$170,000 /year
• Employee Ownership Opportunities
• Eligible for Bonus Program
• Unlimited Paid Time Off
• Health, dental, and vision insurance with FSA and HRA options
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) with an excellent company match
• 35% employee dining discount across all NRG locations
• Manager’s Dining Card
• Wholesale Club Membership reimbursement and PerkSpot discounts

About Newport Restaurant Group: We are proud to be a 100% Employee-Owned Company. What does it mean to work for an 100% Employee-Owned Company? If you decide to join our team, you’ll not just be an employee — you’ll be eligible to become an owner in the company. Really, there’s no catch, we invest in our employees, and they in turn invest their time, energy and talents in our businesses! We have one of the strongest, friendliest hospitality staffs in New England. Our common goal is to make people happy through great food, great locations and great teamwork.

You’ll be part of a company that invests deeply in its people — from competitive benefits to ongoing career growth and a culture of belonging. Together, we’re shaping the next generation of hospitality leaders and ensuring that our legacy of excellence continues for decades to come.

Ready to help shape the future of hospitality at Newport Restaurant Group?

Join us and lead the charge in building a culture where every team member can thrive, grow, and take ownership of their success.

Apply now to make your mark as our next Director of Talent Development.