Description
The Regional Operations Leader is responsible for providing training and operational support to new and existing operators within an assigned territory, overseeing a team of 6-8 direct reports. This role ensures that key performance indicators (KPIs) meet customer requirements and drives business success by fostering an effective and efficient workforce. The ideal candidate will be innovative, a strong decision-maker, and an exceptional facilitator of learning and change. This role demands excellent judgment, strong written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to balance multiple priorities.
Responsibilities
- Champion the guest experience at all operational levels by embedding cultural and operational excellence when implementing company specifications and initiatives.
- Coordinate the rollout of key promotions, new products, and systems, including planning and scheduling New Store Openings (NSOs), resolving implementation issues, providing training, and ensuring operational readiness through ongoing follow-up.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales teams to evaluate new locations and optimize the transition from NSO launch to growth phases.
- Identify Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), influence decisions, align resources, and hold the team accountable for achieving commitments.
- Partner with the Operations Support Specialist team during openings and store visits to ensure training standards are upheld and compliance is verified.
- Ensure the Operations team adheres to all company policies and procedures as outlined in the Company Handbook and training manuals.
- Oversee the maintenance of Operations team vehicles and ensure compliance with all relevant operational standards.
- Develop, motivate, and lead the Operations team to excel and perform at their highest potential through regular feedback and support.
- Prepare agendas and facilitate regional calls as needed, including generating performance reviews, conducting structured one-on-ones, and setting KPIs and metrics through identified opportunities and action plans.
- Manage administrative duties such as using HRIS, CRM, invoicing, expense reports, food orders/deliveries, and effective communication via email. Ensure the Operations team is proficient in all necessary administrative tasks and coordinate weekly schedules and priority tasks.
- Collaborate with Operations Support Specialists to achieve targeted business unit goals using data-driven metrics.
- Support the Operations team at food shows to enhance operational execution.
- Share insights and experiences with other departments to provide consultation on operational issues and participate in the evaluation of rollouts to drive continuous improvement.
- Maintain a continuous training pipeline for the development of all direct reports, ensuring their growth and readiness for future challenges.
- Foster strong relationships with operators and their staff through store visits, training, and support.
- Drive growth and profitability for both the operator and the brand.
- Gain insights into store performance and progress, identifying areas of improvement or needed support.
- Address operational challenges and resolve issues promptly to minimize disruptions and maintain operator and customer satisfaction.
- Ensure that brand standards (food, cleanliness, and customer experience) are consistently met.
- Monitor key performance metrics across all locations to identify trends, areas of improvement, and best practices.
- Assist operators in implementing new initiatives (e.g., 3PD, promotions, etc.) or marketing strategies to drive sales and grow their business.
- Foster strong relationships with local suppliers (e.g., Sysco).
- Lead by example, demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to company values.
- Provide coaching and mentorship to direct reports, focusing on leadership development and career progression.
- Create a positive work environment that encourages team collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.
- Implement leadership training programs to build skills and competencies within the Operations team.
- Recognize and celebrate team achievements, fostering a culture of recognition and appreciation.
- Establish clear goals and expectations for team members, providing regular feedback and support to achieve desired outcomes.
- Empower team members to make decisions and take ownership of their roles, promoting accountability and autonomy.
- Develop and execute individual development plans for direct reports to ensure continuous growth and readiness for future leadership opportunities.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
- Minimum three years of experience in operations management, preferably in multi-state environment, required
- Minimum three years of experience leading teams of four or more people required
- Minimum three years of training experience required
- Working knowledge of Sales and Operations
- Ability to travel up to 75%
- Proficient in MS Office Suite, Gmail & Internet applications
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Wellness Program
- Unlimited Paid Time Off
- Ongoing Team Member Development
