DIRECTOR, STRATEGY

El Pollo Loco•Costa Mesa, CA

8h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Sr. Director/Director of Strategy will lead the development and execution of data-driven strategies that enhance our business performance and will act as a central figure in partnering with the leadership team on strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a creative, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to synthesize large data sets from multiple sources to can drive strategy into action. They are highly adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a strong leadership presence and the ability to work cross-functionally to motivate, influence, and inspire teams. This role will have significant access to the leadership team and must be seen as a trusted partner. Sound business judgment and the ability to work with ambiguity are imperative. This role requires a blend of analytical skills, creativity, and leadership to help expand our brand, improve profitability, and position the company for continued success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Marketing, Statistics, Data Science, or a related field; MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred
10+ years of progressive experience in strategic leadership roles, preferably within a restaurant or hospitality industry, and with a proven track record of success in strategy development, market expansion and/or financial performance improvement
Proven leadership experience, with a track record of managing and developing high-performing teams.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable strategies for diverse audiences.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills (including exceptional PowerPoint communication skills), with the ability to influence and collaborate with diverse teams and with senior leadership.
Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset and the ability to drive change. Pattern thinking with ability to work with ambiguity and to analyze & synthesize complex data and draw business insights
Proven experience with business forecasting, budgeting, and financial analysis.
Deep understanding of restaurant operations, including menu development, supply chain management, menu development, and guest experience optimization.
Knowledge of emerging trends in the restaurant industry, including technology, marketing/brand positioning, sustainability, and consumer behavior.
Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a collaborative, fast paced environment, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Proactively initiates changes to improve work processes & takes responsibility beyond scope of the current position, with the ability to exercise independent judgment on matters of significance to the company.
Ability to work at the Support Center consistent with the company’s hybrid work policy.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including MS Excel and PowerPoint, as well as BI and related software tools.

Responsibilities

Strategic Planning: Lead the development of the company's long-term strategy, including market expansion, new business and innovation opportunities, and . Provide strategic guidance to the executive team and ensure alignment with overall business objectives. Own the development of the company’s 5-year financial plan.
Market & Competitive Analysis: Analyze industry trends, competitor activities, and market dynamics to identify new opportunities, threats, and potential areas for growth. Use consumer and market insights to refine the company’s positioning and develop actionable business plans.
Operational Optimization: Work closely with the operations team to identify process improvements, streamline workflows, and enhance operational efficiency across all locations. Develop strategies to reduce costs, improve margins, and enhance guest experience.
Financial Performance: Partner with the finance team to evaluate financial performance, set key performance indicators (KPIs), and develop cost-effective strategies to drive revenue growth and profitability.
Corporate Development: Identify and assess potential opportunities to expand the company’s footprint and capabilities.
Investor Relations: Regularly communicate strategy updates, progress, and results to senior leadership, board members, and key stakeholders, helping to prepare for quarterly IR calls and other IR events.
Analytics and Insights Leadership: Work closely with the CEO, CFO, and other Executive Leaders to provide strategic reviews of specific topics and lead key strategic sessions (eg, periodic Business reviews, Strategic Offsites, etc.)
Annual Planning: Work with Finance and the Insights and Analysis team to shape the company Annual Operating Plan (AOP), and prepare materials for business meetings throughout the year.
Board of Directors Meetings: Lead timeline for board meeting preparation, working closely with the leadership team and key stakeholders to craft the agenda and create materials. Owns the final board deliverables.