Market Leader (Area Manager) - Phoenix, Arizona

Whataburger isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a place where pride, care, love, and bold flavor come to life. Since 1950, we’ve been making a difference in the communities we serve by putting heart into every order and integrity into every opportunity. As a Market Leader in Operations, you’ll lead 8-12 restaurants generating over $30M in annual revenue — and guide hundreds of Family Members (employees). You’ll serve with heart, move the brand forward boldly, and build a culture where people grow and win as one. Your Recipe for Impact — What You’ll Do You’ll bring Whataburger’s vision to life across your market. You’ll lead multi‑unit operations by setting performance expectations, driving operational excellence, and ensuring each restaurant delivers outstanding guest and Family Member experiences. You’ll Make a Difference through strategic planning, problem‑solving, and guiding Operating Partners to meet and exceed goals. You’ll Serve with Heart by coaching and developing leaders at all levels — using a teaching‑driven, relationship‑first approach to build capability, confidence, and cultural strength. You’ll Win as One through strong partnership and influence, collaborating across teams to execute company initiatives and maintain alignment with brand standards. And you’ll Move Forward Boldly by identifying opportunities, initiating change, and inspiring teams to adapt quickly in a fast‑moving environment. You’ll model Whataburger’s values daily and set the tone for operational discipline, accountability, and a strong people‑first culture. Lead strategy and performance Own market P&L, growth, and operational excellence Role model, develop and coach inspirational leadership to uplift teams and elevate performance Champion guest experience and food quality at scale Cultivate a culture where Family Members thrive and grow Serve as a brand ambassador in your communities What You Bring to the Table — Must‑Have Experience 8+ years of multi‑unit leadership in the QSR or hospitality industry Demonstrated skill in influencing, coaching, communication, and change leadership. Strong capability in strategic planning, prioritization, time management, and decision‑making. Experience analyzing sales, labor, food safety, and operational metrics. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. Experience developing talent pipelines and succession plans. Background in high‑growth, multi‑state, or franchise operations. Advanced proficiency with operational systems, reporting tools, or portfolio management. The Sauce — Pay & Perks Very competitive salary + bonus Opportunity to earn equity (Incentive Units) Company Vehicle Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with $1/$1 match up to 4% Leadership and development programs A high-impact role in an iconic brand that’s just getting started Where & How You’ll Work Multi-market regional oversight - must be able to travel both locally and long distances (including air and overnight travel), to worksites, meetings, and other locations Must be able to report to work timely and as required by operational/business needs Must possess a valid driver’s license, submit to releasing a Motor Vehicle Record check that adheres to the Whataburger standards No conflicting business ownership interests What It Takes, Physically Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds Must be able to stand and sit for extended periods of time Must be able to read (reports, e‑mails, menu board, receipts, etc.) Must be able to use computers, telephones, and office equipment Why Whataburger? Lead a $30M+ region and impact hundreds of family members (employees) Be part of a brand where internal promotion is served up as much as our #1 Whataburger Shape a legacy that’s still growing — with you at the table Whataburger is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, age, or other condition or status protected by law. Whataburger participates in the federal E-Verify Program. For more information go to E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. #J-18808-Ljbffr Whataburger