District Manager

El Pollo Loco Holdings • La Puente, CA

185d

About The Position

The Area Leader is responsible for overseeing the operations of multiple restaurant locations within a designated geographical area. This role drives business growth while ensuring operational excellence and fostering a positive work environment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required; BA/BS degree preferred.
• Five (5) or more years of prior General Management experience required.
• Three (3) or more years of QSR experience as an Area Leader or District Manager preferred.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Experience with successfully recruiting, building, and developing a team.
• Proven experience in a Multi-Unit/Area Manager role within the Quick Service Restaurant industry.
• Strong understanding of QSR or multi-unit retail/restaurant/hospitality operations.
• Ability to analyze financial reports and implement strategies for business improvement.
• Confidence in execution of strategic initiatives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset and skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external business partners.
• Ability to prioritize and plan work assignments and work under pressure.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret complex reports, documents, and correspondence.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment on matters of significance to the company.
• Ability to work weekends and extended work schedules as needed.
• Must be willing and able to travel locally within Southern California and to out-of-state restaurant locations.

Responsibilities

• Hire, train, lead, coach, develop, and mentor restaurant leadership teams including General Managers (GMs), Assistant Managers (AMs), and Shift Leaders (SLs).
• Provide ongoing coaching to ensure all team members consistently meet and/or exceed expectations.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment within designated area, promoting a culture of excellence and teamwork.
• Implement and maintain operational standards, ensuring consistency across all locations in compliance with federal/state/local laws including employment laws, food quality and safety standards, and employee/restaurant safety policies and procedures.
• Manage annual budgets for each assigned restaurant location, working to achieve financial targets.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Provide timely, insightful feedback, and proactive guidance to restaurant management.
• Ensure control over assigned area costs through effective inventory management, labor scheduling, and resource allocation leadership.
• Collaborate with each General Manager, crafting strategic plans to reduce costs, boost sales, and optimize profit.
• Conduct regular meetings and restaurant visits to ensure compliance with operational standards.
• Preserve brand integrity of restaurant facilities through established brand and performance standards.
• Provide effective and timely resolution to escalated customer complaints.
• Collaborate with the People Services Department to resolve team member conflicts and address employee relations matters.
• Work cross-functionally with the People Services and Loss Prevention departments to investigate and settle security and cash handling violations.
• Represent the Company at state and federal agency hearings, conferences, meetings, as needed.
• Collaborate with the Operations Services, Training, and Marketing teams to execute regional marketing strategies and promotions.
• Stay informed about industry trends and competitor activities to make informed business decisions.
• Champion effective vertical and horizontal communications within the area.
• Other activities, duties or responsibilities that are assigned by your supervisor.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and bonus
• Medical + Dental + Vision Insurance
• 401(K) Plan with match and immediate vesting
• Basic Life and AD&D/Long Term Disability
• Vacation + Sick Pay + 12 Paid Holidays
• Vehicle stipend + gas card
• Free El Pollo Loco food (Dine Out Card) + Restaurant Discount
• Discounts on El Pollo Loco food, theme parks, movie tickets, sports, hotels and more

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Food Services and Drinking Places
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees