Senior Director of Restaurant Operations - Papa Johns

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

About Us

Papa ERDR is a growing QSR franchise group operating Papa Johns restaurants across New Jersey and New England. We're operator-led, people-first, and serious about performance. We invest in our teams, build real systems, and expect our leaders to drive results we can measure.

The Role

We're looking for a proven multi-unit, multi-market operator to lead our Papa Johns restaurant operations across New England and New Jersey. You'll own field leadership, operational execution, people development, sales growth, and profitability for the entire Papa Johns portfolio. You'll lead our field leaders, set the standard for operational excellence, and turn strategy into consistent results in every restaurant.

This is a senior leadership role for someone who has already done this successfully and can show the numbers to prove it.

What You'll Do

• Lead, coach, and hold accountable a team of field leaders (Directors and Area Operations leaders) across multiple markets
• Own P&L performance for the Papa John's portfolio, including sales, labor, food cost, controllables, and EBITDA
• Build and execute operating plans that drive same-store sales growth, transaction growth, and margin improvement
• Drive operational excellence in speed of service, order accuracy, food quality, cleanliness, and guest experience
• Ensure consistent execution of brand standards, food safety, and franchise compliance requirements
• Develop a strong leadership bench through structured coaching, performance management, and promotion-from-within pathways
• Partner with People Operations on hiring, retention, staffing models, and labor law compliance across NJ and New England
• Partner with Marketing on local store marketing, promotions, and community engagement to grow sales
• Use data and reporting to identify underperforming restaurants and lead turnaround plans with clear accountability
• Support new restaurant openings, remodels, and acquisitions as the portfolio grows
• Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, contributing to company strategy and growth

What You Bring

• 7+ years of multi-unit QSR operations leadership, including at least 3 years leading multiple markets and field leaders (Directors or Area Supervisors)
• Multi-brand QSR experience strongly preferred
• A documented track record of results, such as sales growth, margin improvement, turnarounds, reduced turnover, and leaders developed and promoted
• Full P&L ownership across a portfolio of 20+ restaurants
• Franchise system experience; pizza, delivery, or off-premise experience is a plus
• Strong command of labor management, food cost, and operational KPIs
• Proven ability to build accountable, high-performing teams and lead through other leaders
• Working knowledge of employment and labor regulations in New Jersey and New England states
• Willingness to travel regularly throughout New England and New Jersey
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent operational experience considered

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary 
• Performance bonus tied to operational and financial results
• Additional incentives
• [Benefits: health, dental, vision, PTO, 401(k), vehicle/mileage allowance, etc.]
• A seat at the leadership table in a growing, multi-brand franchise organization
• A culture that values people development, innovation, and community impact