Senior Regional Trainer

Wills Group, Inc • La Plata, MD

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

As a senior member of the Talent and People Operations team, the Senior Regional Trainer plays a critical role in driving exceptional customer experiences and ensuring the high-quality execution of all Retail services. This role is responsible for the strategic implementation, facilitation, and evaluation of advanced field-based learning and development initiatives for Team Members across our Retail Business, including Franchise and Corporate partners at Dash In, Splash In, and other affiliated entities.
The Senior Regional Trainer leads training efforts for New Store Openings, Remodel Openings, and new product rollout initiatives, while also mentoring and supporting other trainers within the organization to ensure consistency and excellence across all training programs.
This position requires demonstrated expertise in teaching, coaching, and leadership development at all levels of the organization, along with advanced knowledge in foodservice, hospitality, and operations excellence.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of people and business management experience, preferably in fast-casual or full-service restaurants.
• At least 1 year of food service experience in a similar environment.
• 3+ years of hands-on training experience, including running training stores, on-the-job training, and classroom facilitation.
• Strong presentation and communication skills; able to adjust coaching to diverse audiences.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and learning/training technology.
• Prior experience as a corporate trainer, facilitating classroom/webinar sessions, and executing training programs.
• Knowledge of adult learning methods and national food safety standards (ServSafe or equivalent preferred).
• Skilled in project management, problem-solving, and multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated, with the ability to meet deadlines independently.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Willing to travel frequently (65-75%) with overnight stays as needed. Travel fluctuates based on new store opening schedule, so at times could be more.

Nice To Haves

• Instructional design, experience in creating job aids.
• ServSafe Alcohol Training Certification or similar.
• Experience with Adobe platforms, SharePoint, and LMS.
• Innovative thinker with strong analytical and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Support learning and development initiatives for Corporate and Franchise locations, ensuring consistency and alignment with business objectives.
• Implement and deliver comprehensive training programs for Store Management and Associates, covering Job Roles, Guest Experience, Food Safety, and certification programs.
• Coordinate and facilitate all training for New Store Openings and Remodels, including onboarding and other related initiatives.
• Partner with Area Managers to evaluate operational performance in each market against established standards, identify training needs, and validate program effectiveness to achieve desired results.
• Facilitate training on Guest engagement, quality service standards, and foodservice excellence to enhance the customer experience.
• Conduct Certified Training Store visits as needed to ensure quality training environments and consistency across locations.
• Deliver training on the proper operation and maintenance of equipment to ensure safe and efficient use.
• Manage access and availability of Compliance Courses for Store Management and Associates to maintain regulatory and operational standards.
• Obtain and maintain Proctor and facilitation Certification for ServSafe Manager Food Handler Courses, administering and overseeing testing as required for Retail Operations.
• Actively participate in Training Team initiatives, contributing to the development and delivery of impactful training programs.
• Facilitate online training courses as required to ensure flexibility and accessibility for learners.
• Recommend and implement process improvements to streamline training delivery and enhance the learner experience.
• Monitor and analyze the effectiveness of training techniques through ROI assessments, motivating and educating team members to support key priorities.
• Assess, measure, and calibrate training programs to ensure they effectively meet employee performance objectives and organizational goals.
• Develop and share best practices within the Training Team, contributing to team meetings with training modules or presentations.
• Attend and participate in Retail Operations meetings, whether on-site or off-site, as required.
• Acquire and maintain all necessary compliance courses and certifications to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and company standards.

Benefits

• Financial Well-being: Employer 401(k) match (currently at 7%), health savings plan, and financial planning.
• Physical Well-being: Comprehensive health, vision, and dental plans tailored to meet the needs of our people and their families, even their pets!
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick, personal, community engagement, and parental leave for new parents.
• Work/Life Balance: Hybrid and flexible work environment, Employee Assistance Program, travel assistance, family life planning.
• Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy discounts on theme parks, Broadway shows, concerts, travel, shopping, dining, and wellness services.
• Education and Development Opportunities: 100% tuition reimbursement to support our team’s education goals, robust development programs, and certificate program assistance (up to 100% employer-paid).
• Competitive Salary: Competitive pay matched to DC Metro area.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed