Operations Excellence Specialist

Operations Excellence Specialist We’re hiring! AFCFC is seeking a highly motivated Operations Excellence Specialist to join our team! About Us Since 1986, we’ve been redefining fresh and convenient dining as North America’s largest franchisor of supermarket-based food service counters featuring sushi and other authentic Asian-inspired cuisine. Our well-loved brands, ZENSHI Handcrafted Sushi and Wild Blue Sushi, are trusted names that bring flavor and freshness to communities every day. With thousands of locations across the U.S. and Canada, we’ve built our reputation on quality, consistency, and innovation. Every dish we serve is freshly prepared with premium ingredients carefully packaged and designed for today’s on-the-go lifestyle. As the industry leader, we’re passionate about delivering the perfect balance of taste, quality, and convenience. But what truly sets us apart is our people, the dedicated teams who bring our mission to life each day. If you’re looking to grow with a company that values innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement, we invite you to join us and shape the future of fresh dining. About the Role The Operations Excellence Specialist (OES) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the sustained success and profitability of AFC’s brand, Zenshi, franchises. This role focuses on mentoring and guiding franchisees to master Zenshi's operational, financial, and marketing frameworks, thereby ensuring consistent excellence across all locations. The OES is also responsible for enforcing Zenshi’s policies, particularly those outlined in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), and maintaining rigorous food safety standards. Through strategic visits and comprehensive documentation, the OES will support franchisees in achieving year-over-year (YOY) sales growth and enhancing overall brand success. Key Responsibilities: Franchisee Development: Provide ongoing mentorship and guidance to franchisees to help them master Zenshi’s financial, operational, and marketing models. Ensure franchisees are equipped to drive consistent operational excellence and achieve sales targets. Policy Enforcement: Enforce all company policies and procedures as outlined in the FDD through regular field visits and detailed documentation. Ensure that food safety standards are consistently upheld across all franchise locations. Operational Support: Support franchisees in translating strategic plans into actionable sales activities. Monitor market trends and assist in developing strategies to optimize sales potential and implement advantageous pricing strategies. Financial Acumen: Demonstrate a strong understanding of P&L statements, cash flow, and EBITDA. Identify and communicate financial opportunities to franchisees to improve profitability. Relationship Building: Cultivate strong relationships with franchisees, fostering a collaborative environment. Use effective communication and positive influence to motivate and hold franchisees accountable to Zenshi’s standards. Travel: This role requires up to 60% travel to various franchise locations to provide hands‑on support and ensure compliance with company standards. Qualifications: Education: Bachelor’s degree in business, Hospitality, or a related field is preferred. Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a General Manager or Multi‑Unit Operations Manager role within the restaurant industry. Skills: Strong ability to build relationships and communicate effectively. Excellent problem‑solving, negotiation, and financial analysis skills. Proven track record in leading, motivating, and holding teams accountable. Demonstrated flexibility, emotional resilience, and adaptability. Superior organizational, prioritization, and project management abilities. Proficiency in MS Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience with Asian cuisine, preferably with sushi. Additional Requirements: Ability to translate strategic planning into effective sales activities. In‑depth knowledge of market trends and how to leverage them for business growth. Strong understanding of P&L management and the ability to communicate financial insights clearly. Commitment to achieving operational excellence through active franchisee involvement. Knowledge of the food service industry. Physical Demands: Able to lift and carry up to 15 lbs at times. Able to work with prolonged sitting and working on a computer. What’s On the Menu for You? (Compensation & Benefits) We don’t just serve fresh sushi, we serve fresh opportunities! Here’s a taste of what you can expect: Competitive Pay Package (see salary range listed). Annual Bonus Opportunity (Discretionary) – up to 5% of base salary. Competitive Health & Wellness Package (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance – 100% covered by AFC for employee only coverage). 401(k) with Company Match. Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays including a Floating Holiday to celebrate your birthday. Special Employee Anniversary Milestone Gift. Other Employee Discounts. Employee Referral Bonus. A friendly & positive work culture that inspires collaboration, recognizes accomplishments, and fosters continuous growth, creating not just a workplace, but a community where people truly thrive. #J-18808-Ljbffr