Director of Operations

Director of OperationsThe Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO's primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).ResponsibilitiesLeads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relationsTrains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluationsFollows up on training of MIT's/CAFE's and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progressEnsures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programsThrough effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First WatchEnsures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurantsTakes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflictsDevelops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area's budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expensesPromotes First Watch outside the restaurantQualificationsBachelor's degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferredFive to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operationsProven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teamsPassion for providing excellent service and qualityAbility to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team successExtensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industryAbility to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environmentValid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned marketFirst Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid's meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many "Best Breakfast" and "Best Brunch" awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024's #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visit Watch is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.