Director, Franchise Operations chez Panerabread

Job Overview:

The Director of Franchise Operations plays a critical role in ensuring the success and growth of the franchise network through growing the number of franchisees and cafes, improving franchise attractiveness and strengthening our existing franchisees. This position requires a combination of business acumen, strategic thinking, influential leadership, and a deep understanding of the restaurant industry as well as Panera’s Operations and Brand Standards. As the Director of Franchise Operations, you will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing the performance of franchise locations, ensuring compliance with brand standards, and fostering strong alignment and partnership with franchisees. This role is crucial in maintaining consistency, quality, and profitability across the franchise network to unlock enterprise value.

Location: Field-based

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Conduct business reviews of our Franchise Standards with Franchise Operations Partners, consulting with Business Owners to drive the business forward and putting plans in place to support those goals.
• Provide guidance and support to franchisees in all aspects of restaurant operations, including food safety, operational execution, menu management, quality control, customer service, and marketing.
• Ensure that all franchise locations adhere to brand standards and operational procedures, maintaining consistency in the guest experience.
• Partner to facilitate, implement and fully realize training programs for franchisees and their staff to enhance their skills, knowledge, and overall operational excellence.
• Analyze financial and operational data from franchise locations to identify areas for improvement, cost reduction, and revenue enhancement.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to implement marketing strategies and campaigns that drive brand recognition and attract customers to franchise locations.

• Work cross-functionally within LLC owning a division of responsibility, to create department subject matter experts voicing franchise position and bridging gaps to move as One Panera

• Maintain strict quality control standards, ensuring that food, service, and cleanliness meet or exceed company expectations.
• Monitor franchisee financial performance, assist in budgeting, planning and prioritizing work to maximize profitability while controlling costs.
• Acts as a critical liaison between the franchisor and franchisees to maintain a positive and dynamic relationship.
• Prepare regular reports for senior management on the performance and health of the franchise network.
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement within the franchise system.

Qualifications (Education & Experience):

• Bachelor's degree in business management, hospitality, or a related field or comparable experience
• Proven experience in franchise operations or multi-unit restaurant management.
• Strong understanding of the restaurant industry and franchising.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in financial analysis and reporting.
• Leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to travel to various franchise locations as needed.

Working Conditions:

70% Travel required

Salary: $145,305-$217,667 

Equal Opportunity Employer: Disabled/Veterans

The actual pay offered will be determined by multiple factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, job-related knowledge, skills, and geographical location. Individual compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.