Vice President Operations

GOSH Enterprises is a dynamic, growing multi-brand restaurant company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Our portfolio includes: Charleys Philly Steaks – An 880+ unit restaurant brand recognized worldwide for serving the #1 Philly Cheesesteak in the World BIBIBOP Asian Grill – An award-winning, 80+ unit Korean-inspired fast casual concept Lenny’s Grill & Subs – A Memphis-based chain of 60+ locations serving high-quality deli and hot subs Charleys Kids – A non-profit partnering with organizations worldwide to provide food, education, and mentorship to at-risk children Solar Planet – A solar field advisory and installation services company Position Summary The Vice President of Operations serves as the senior field operations leader for Charleys Philly Steaks, responsible for driving system-wide operational performance, franchisee accountability, and brand standard execution across the 880+ unit network. This role provides strategic and operational leadership across both company-operated and franchised locations, partnering closely with brand leadership, franchise development, marketing, and supply chain to ensure consistent guest experiences, strong unit economics, and scalable growth. The ideal candidate brings high energy, proven multi‑unit restaurant operations experience, a track record of developing high-performing field teams, and the ability to operate with both strategic vision and hands‑on execution in a fast‑paced, franchise‑driven environment. What You’ll Own (Core Responsibilities) Field Operations Leadership Set the strategic direction for field operations across the Charleys system, ensuring alignment with brand standards, company priorities, and growth objectives Lead a team of Regional Operations Directors and field support staff responsible for restaurant performance across all markets Drive accountability for key operational metrics including sales performance, guest satisfaction scores, food safety, and labor efficiency Establish and enforce brand standards across company‑operated and franchised locations, ensuring a consistent and exceptional guest experience Partner with Brand Marketing and Training teams to develop and deploy operational programs, tools, and initiatives that elevate field execution Franchise Relations & Performance Serve as the senior operational point of contact for franchisees, building strong, trust‑based relationships that drive engagement and performance Lead franchisee performance management efforts, including operational reviews, remediation planning, and ongoing coaching Partner with Franchise Development to support new franchisee onboarding, restaurant openings, and market expansion Ensure franchise compliance with brand standards, operational requirements, and contractual obligations Represent operations in franchise‑facing communications, conventions, and franchisee advisory council engagements Educate franchisees on unit‑level P&L measures and how to identify savings opportunities across prime costs and controllables Brand Strategy & Cross‑Functional Partnership Serve as a key member of the Charleys leadership team, contributing to brand strategy, annual planning, and long‑range operational priorities Partner with Marketing on promotional execution, new product rollouts, and guest experience initiatives Collaborate with Supply Chain on product availability, distribution performance, and cost management at the restaurant level Work with Finance on P&L management, labor models, and unit‑level financial performance Support menu innovation and new concept testing by providing field‑level operational input and execution oversight Restaurant Excellence & Guest Experience Champion a culture of operational excellence and guest‑first thinking at every level of the organization Oversee food safety, sanitation, and health code compliance across the system Lead operational response to brand crises, guest incidents, or market disruptions Drive continuous improvement in restaurant‑level execution through process development, coaching, and accountability structures Monitor and act on guest feedback, operational audits, and performance data to identify systemic improvement opportunities Lead, develop, and retain a high‑performing field operations team, including Regional Directors and their direct reports Build talent pipelines and succession plans within the operations organization Establish clear performance expectations, development plans, and accountability structures for all direct and indirect reports Foster a culture of inclusion, accountability, and continuous growth within the field operations team Partner with HR and Training to ensure strong onboarding, development programs, and retention of field leadership talent What Good Looks Like You will thrive in this role if you: Lead through influence and relationships, not just authority Balance franchisee needs and corporate priorities with sound judgment and clear communication Drive performance improvement with urgency while maintaining a culture of respect and development Operate comfortably in a fast‑paced, entrepreneurial environment where ambiguity is the norm Connect day‑to‑day field execution to long‑term brand strategy Build trust with franchisees, field teams, and senior leadership simultaneously Bring both strategic perspective and a willingness to roll up your sleeves when the business requires it Remain calm and decisive during operational crises or complex franchise situations What You Bring (Qualifications) Required Bachelor’s degree in business, Hospitality Management, or a related field; equivalent experience considered 10+ years of progressive restaurant operations leadership experience 5+ years leading multi‑unit field operations at a VP level or above Demonstrated experience leading operations within a franchise environment Proven track record of driving, measurable improvements in sales, guest satisfaction, and operational metrics Strong financial acumen with experience managing P&L and labor cost at a system level Experience leading geographically dispersed teams across multiple markets or regions Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills across franchisees, field, and corporate audiences Willingness to travel extensively to support the field (estimated 67%+) Experience in a QSR or fast casual concept at scale (500+ units) Preferred Experience managing both company‑operated and franchised locations within the same brand Familiarity with restaurant technology platforms including POS, labor scheduling, and operational reporting tools Experience supporting brand acquisitions, new market entry, or international expansion Total Rewards Competitive salary + bonus Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) Paid vacation and personal days Short‑term disability and voluntary life insurance Tuition and wellness reimbursement GOSH is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the application process and throughout employment, as required by applicable law. If you require assistance or accommodation, please inform us so we can ensure your needs are met. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. #J-18808-Ljbffr Gosh Enterprises Inc