Leap Brands is hiring: Director of Operations - Quick Service Restaurants in Pho

Director of Operations - Quick Service Restaurants

Position Overview

We are seeking a driven and strategic Director of Operations to oversee and scale operations within our Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) brand. This individual will play a dual role: ensuring excellence in existing restaurant operations while taking a leadership role in new unit development, from site selection to grand opening. The Director of Operations will partner with cross-functional leaders in development, construction, training, and marketing to ensure new restaurants open on time, on budget, and ready to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day operations across [X–Y] QSR units, ensuring excellence in service, quality, and guest satisfaction.
• Drive operational consistency, brand standards, and compliance with health, safety, and labor regulations.
• Develop and coach multi-unit managers to deliver sales growth, cost control, and team development.

New Unit Development

• Partner with Real Estate and Development teams on site selection, feasibility studies, and pro forma analysis.
• Serve as operational lead during construction and pre-opening phases, ensuring design and layout align with operational efficiency.
• Build and execute pre-opening playbooks, including staffing, training, vendor setup, and local marketing launch plans.
• Oversee seamless restaurant openings, ensuring each location is guest-ready on day one.
• Conduct post-opening reviews and implement adjustments to optimize performance.

Financial & Strategic Management

• Own P&L accountability across the district/region, with a strong focus on sales growth and profitability.
• Forecast, budget, and manage operating expenses for both existing and new units.
• Track KPIs to measure success of new openings and implement continuous improvement strategies.
• Recruit, train, and mentor General Managers and Area Managers.
• Build a leadership pipeline capable of supporting rapid unit growth.
• Foster a culture of accountability, hospitality, and guest-first mindset across all restaurants.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Marketing to ensure effective local store marketing and community engagement for new locations.
• Partner with HR/Training to design onboarding programs for new teams.
• Collaborate with Finance and Development on ROI analysis for new restaurants.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of multi-unit leadership experience in QSR, fast casual, or franchised restaurants.
• Proven track record of opening new restaurants/units successfully.
• Strong P&L management and financial acumen.
• Ability to manage large-scale projects with cross-functional partners.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment with frequent travel.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management

Industries

• Restaurants