Vice President of Operations - QSR
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Overview
Job Description
Role Mission
To lead, scale, and optimize a high-performing multi-unit QSR portfolio by bridging the gap between corporate strategy and frontline execution. The VP of Operations will be responsible for driving Average Unit Volume and EBITDA growth while fostering a "People-First" culture that leverages 2026’s cutting-edge restaurant technology.
Key Responsibilities
1. Operational Excellence & Tech Integration
Unified Commerce Oversight: Lead the operational rollout of unified platforms (kiosks, mobile apps, AI-voice drive-thrus) ensuring a frictionless "Smart Kitchen" workflow.
Throughput Optimization: Implement BOH automation tools (AI demand forecasting, automated portioning) to maximize "Time-to-Window" efficiency and offset labor volatility.
Standardization: Develop and enforce a "First 90 Days" playbook for new restaurant openings (NSOs) and acquisitions to ensure brand consistency from Day 1.
2. Financial Stewardship & Unit Economics
P&L Mastery: Total accountability for the portfolio’s P&L. You must speak the language of "Margin per Ticket" and "Prime Cost" (aiming for the 60% industry gold standard).
Data Stewardship: Maintain a "Zero-Incident" mindset by using real-time analytics to monitor food safety, labor compliance, and inventory waste.
Strategic Scaling: Partner with the Development team to identify underperforming units and execute "Right-Sizing" or turnaround initiatives.
3. Cultural Leadership & Workforce Strategy
Talent Bench Strength: Lead and mentor a team of Regional/District Managers. Your success is measured by the retention and promotion rate of your field leaders.
Modern Labor Strategy: Implement digital onboarding and "Time-to-Competency" training programs to stabilize a fluctuating labor market.
Hospitality First: Ensure that technology supports, rather than replaces, the human element of service. You are the chief protector of the guest experience.
Key Performance Indicators (The "Scorecard")
Financial: AUV Growth, EBITDA Margin, and Prime Cost % (COGS + Labor).
Speed: Drive-thru/Window "Speed of Service" (SOS) and Order Accuracy.
Growth: Successful NSO/Acquisition integration timelines.
People: Manager Retention Rate and Employee Net Promoter Score (eNPS).
Guest: Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) and Repeat Visit Rate.
Required Experience & Qualifications
Tenure: 12+ years of progressive leadership in QSR or Fast Casual; at least 5 years at the Director or VP level overseeing 50+ units.
Technical Literacy: Proficiency with modern QSR tech stacks (e.g., Toast, Brink, Olo, AI-voice integration, and automated scheduling tools).
Acquisition Muscle: Proven experience integrating M&A targets or scaling a brand from regional to national.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business or Hospitality; MBA preferred.
Travel: Ability to travel up to 50% to conduct high-frequency operational audits and site visits.
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