Ep 11. Watershed Hospitality

In this episode of The Job Interview, viewers are taken behind the scenes at Watershed Hospitality, a rapidly growing food and beverage company in Atlanta, Georgia. With a reputation for excellence in its culinary and hospitality offerings, the company is looking to hire a new director of operations to help oversee its multiple locations and ensure that the business continues to thrive.

The episode begins with a brief introduction to the company and its leadership team, including founder and CEO Ross Jones and his co-founder and wife, Emily. Candidates for the position of director of operations are then introduced, and viewers are given a glimpse into their backgrounds and experiences as they prepare for their interviews.

The first candidate, Alex, is a seasoned restaurant manager with years of experience overseeing multiple locations and driving business growth. He is confident and forthcoming in his interview, highlighting his successes in previous roles and outlining his plans for streamlining operations at Watershed Hospitality. However, his laid-back demeanor and tendency to ramble could potentially work against him as he competes against more polished candidates.

The second candidate, Janelle, is a rising star in the hospitality industry with a background in hotel management and a track record of success in her previous roles. She exudes professionalism and showcases her strong communication skills, describing her management philosophy and her passion for providing exceptional customer service. However, her lack of experience in the restaurant world could be a disadvantage in the eyes of some interviewers.

The third candidate, Tony, is a former fighter pilot who has transitioned into a career in operations management. He is enthusiastic and energetic, emphasizing his ability to manage teams effectively and lead through challenging situations. However, his lack of experience in the hospitality industry could be a liability for a company like Watershed, which places a premium on guest experience and culinary excellence.

Throughout the episode, viewers get an inside look at the interview process itself, as candidates are put through their paces by a panel of interviewers that includes the founders of the company, as well as members of the HR and operations teams. They are grilled on a range of topics, from their approach to leadership and their experience in managing budgets and business growth, to their views on customer service and their plans for navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry.

The tension is high as candidates are asked to give examples of their ability to lead teams, manage projects, and think creatively to solve complex problems. They are also asked to describe their strategies for handling difficult situations, from unhappy customers to underperforming employees. Throughout the process, they are evaluated not only on their qualifications and experience, but also on their demeanor, communication skills, and ability to think on their feet.

Ultimately, the episode ends with a decision on who will be offered the position of director of operations at Watershed Hospitality. Viewers will have to tune in to find out which candidate was selected and what their plans are for leading the company to even greater success in the years to come.