Director of Operations - WSL

Leap Brands • St. Louis, MO

103d

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Mentor and develop field operations team members (e.g., Area Coaches, Training Managers).
• Provide guidance on leadership development and succession planning for franchisee teams.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees