Director of Operations - Quick Service Restaurant

Director of Operations

The Director of Operations is responsible for leading the operational success of franchise and/or company-owned units within an assigned territory. This role is highly focused on building strong franchise relationships, driving operational consistency, improving unit-level profitability, and supporting strategic growth initiatives. The ideal candidate is a results-driven leader with deep multi-unit restaurant experience and a proven ability to influence and inspire operators.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership:

  • Oversee day-to-day operational performance of all restaurants in assigned region.

  • Ensure adherence to brand standards, food safety protocols, and guest experience metrics.

  • Conduct regular business reviews and store visits to assess operations and recommend improvements.

• Franchise Partner Support:

  • Serve as primary liaison for franchise owners and operators, providing coaching, resources, and tools to help them achieve operational and financial targets.

  • Support new franchise openings, including training, onboarding, and market launch execution.

  • Build strong, trust-based relationships with franchise partners to foster collaboration and alignment with brand goals.

• Financial Performance:

  • Monitor P&L statements, identify opportunities to increase sales and profitability, and implement solutions in partnership with franchisees and managers.

  • Support pricing strategies, cost control initiatives, labor optimization, and inventory management.

• Team Development:

  • Mentor and develop field operations team members (e.g., Area Coaches, Training Managers).

  • Provide guidance on leadership development and succession planning for franchisee teams.

• Strategic Growth Initiatives:

  • Partner with leadership to execute market expansion strategies, remodels, and new unit openings.

  • Identify operational best practices and standardize them across the franchise network.

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Supply Chain, Training, and Development teams to drive brand success.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive multi-unit leadership experience in the QSR, fast-casual, or franchise restaurant industry.

• Strong background in franchise operations management, preferably supporting multiple owners across a region or national territory.

• Proven success in improving sales, profitability, and operational execution at scale.

• Exceptional relationship-building, coaching, and influencing skills.

• Solid understanding of restaurant P&L, KPIs, and financial drivers.

• Experience supporting large-scale openings, market launches, and growth initiatives.

• Ability to travel.

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Hospitality, or related field preferred.