Area Director of Operations

The Friendly Toast•Exeter, NH

About The Position

The Area Director is responsible for the overall performance of a designated group of restaurants. The role focuses on driving sales, profitability, and guest satisfaction while ensuring operational excellence and team development. The Area Director provides strategic leadership and support to General Managers, monitors restaurant performance, and ensures consistent execution of brand standards and service protocols. The position is responsible for budget attainment within the assigned region and requires travel to restaurants as needed, amounting to at least 75% of the work week. The Area Director leads General Manager recruitment, onboarding, training, and development; monitors financial performance; supports budgeting, forecasting, and inventory management; and works to ensure a positive guest experience and strong community relationships. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Requirements

Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to communicate across all levels of the organization.
Flexibility and ability to manage multiple projects with strong attention to detail.
Self-motivation and a results-driven approach.
Ability to handle multiple tasks in a time-sensitive environment.
Willingness to understand the business.
Proven organization and critical-thinking skills.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership and support to General Managers within the assigned area.
Conduct regular restaurant site visits to assess performance, identify improvement opportunities, and ensure compliance with company standards.
Monitor key performance indicators, including sales, profitability, guest satisfaction, and employee engagement.
Develop and implement action plans to address operational challenges and improve performance.
Ensure consistent execution of brand standards and service protocols.
Attain the budget within the assigned region.
Recruit, hire, and onboard high-performing General Managers and support front-of-house management hiring.
Provide ongoing training and development to General Managers and their teams.
Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.
Foster a positive, collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork and employee engagement.
Address employee concerns and resolve conflicts effectively.
Monitor and analyze financial performance, including sales, costs, and profitability.
Develop and implement strategies to improve financial performance.
Assist General Managers with budgeting, forecasting, and inventory management.
Ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures.
Ensure a positive and memorable dining experience for guests.
Respond promptly and effectively to guest feedback and complaints.
Identify and implement strategies to enhance the guest experience.
Promote the brand and build relationships with the local community.
Travel to restaurants as needed and at least 75% of the work week.