Director of Operations - Restaurant

Leap Brands•Santa Barbara, CA

38d•$130,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for a Director of Operations who knows what great restaurant operations look like and has the leadership skills to build them at scale. This isn't a corporate desk job. We're looking for a hands-on operator who enjoys being in the restaurants, coaching leaders, improving financial performance, and creating an exceptional guest experience. The Director of Operations will oversee multiple full-service restaurant locations and partner with General Managers to drive sales, profitability, operational excellence, and team development.

Requirements

7+ years of multi-unit leadership experience in full-service restaurants.
Experience overseeing multiple restaurant locations with responsibility for financial performance.
Strong understanding of restaurant P&Ls and key operating metrics.
Proven ability to develop General Managers into high-performing leaders.
Experience leading high-volume restaurant operations.
Excellent communication and coaching skills.
Strong business acumen with the ability to balance hospitality and profitability.
Willingness to travel extensively.

Nice To Haves

Casual dining, polished casual, upscale casual, or family dining experience.
Experience with 8–20+ restaurant locations.
Background working with private equity-backed or growth-oriented restaurant companies.
Experience leading new restaurant openings, remodels, or operational turnarounds.

Responsibilities

Lead the operational performance of multiple full-service restaurant locations.
Coach, mentor, and develop General Managers and Area Leaders.
Drive sales growth while improving restaurant profitability and EBITDA.
Analyze P&L statements and identify opportunities to improve labor, food cost, and operating expenses.
Ensure every restaurant consistently delivers an exceptional guest experience.
Maintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, service, and hospitality.
Develop action plans for underperforming restaurants and hold leadership teams accountable for results.
Recruit, train, and retain high-performing operational leaders.
Partner with HR on hiring, employee relations, and succession planning.
Work closely with Marketing, Culinary, Finance, and Training to execute company initiatives.
Monitor KPIs including sales, labor, food cost, guest satisfaction, turnover, and safety metrics.
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and company operating standards.
Travel regularly between restaurant locations.