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Leap Brands

Director of Operations - WSL

Leap Brands, St. Louis

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Position Summary:

The Director of Operations is responsible for leading the operational success of franchise and/or company-owned units within an assigned territory. This role is highly focused on building strong franchise relationships, driving operational consistency, improving unit-level profitability, and supporting strategic growth initiatives . The ideal candidate is a results-driven leader with deep multi-unit restaurant experience and a proven ability to influence and inspire operators.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operational Leadership:
    • Oversee day-to-day operational performance of all restaurants in assigned region.

    • Ensure adherence to brand standards, food safety protocols, and guest experience metrics.

    • Conduct regular business reviews and store visits to assess operations and recommend improvements.

  • Franchise Partner Support:
    • Serve as primary liaison for franchise owners and operators, providing coaching, resources, and tools to help them achieve operational and financial targets.

    • Support new franchise openings, including training, onboarding, and market launch execution.

    • Build strong, trust-based relationships with franchise partners to foster collaboration and alignment with brand goals.

  • Financial Performance:
    • Monitor P&L statements, identify opportunities to increase sales and profitability, and implement solutions in partnership with franchisees and managers.

    • Support pricing strategies, cost control initiatives, labor optimization, and inventory management.

  • Team Development:
    • Mentor and develop field operations team members (e.g., Area Coaches, Training Managers).

    • Provide guidance on leadership development and succession planning for franchisee teams.

  • Strategic Growth Initiatives:
    • Partner with leadership to execute market expansion strategies, remodels, and new unit openings.

    • Identify operational best practices and standardize them across the franchise network.

    • Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Supply Chain, Training, and Development teams to drive brand success.

Qualifications:

  • 7+ years of progressive multi-unit leadership experience in the QSR, fast-casual, or franchise restaurant industry.

  • Strong background in franchise operations management, preferably supporting multiple owners across a region or national territory.

  • Proven success in improving sales, profitability, and operational execution at scale.

  • Exceptional relationship-building, coaching, and influencing skills.

  • Solid understanding of restaurant P&L, KPIs, and financial drivers.

  • Experience supporting large-scale openings, market launches, and growth initiatives.

  • Ability to travel

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Hospitality, or related field preferred.

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