Director of Operations (Food & Restaurant)

We are looking for a seasoned Director of Operations to lead the operational excellence of our multi-outlet food chain. The successful candidate will have extensive experience in restaurant or food chain management, demonstrating strong leadership and the ability to oversee large teams. This role focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, maintaining superior service standards, and driving overall business performance across multiple locations.

Key Responsibilities

Operations Management:
Manage daily operations across all restaurant outlets to ensure seamless business activities. Develop and refine operational systems, policies, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain consistency in food quality, service, hygiene, presentation, and customer experience. Regularly monitor outlet performance to identify gaps and inefficiencies, conducting operational visits and reviews. Set clear operational KPIs and ensure branch teams meet these targets. Ensure compliance with company policies, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Leadership & Team Management:
Lead and mentor Branch Managers, Restaurant Managers, and senior staff, setting clear performance expectations and holding teams accountable. Conduct regular performance evaluations and implement improvement plans when necessary. Collaborate with HR on recruitment, onboarding, training, retention, and workforce planning. Develop leadership skills within the management team and build a strong internal talent pipeline. Maintain effective communication between the head office and outlet teams.

Financial & Cost Management:
Oversee sales, food and labor costs, wastage, inventory, and profitability at each location. Identify opportunities for operational efficiency and cost control. Review financial and operational reports, taking corrective actions as needed. Work closely with Finance and Procurement to maintain healthy margins and enforce purchasing and inventory control procedures.

Customer Experience & Quality:
Ensure consistently high standards of customer service across all outlets. Monitor customer feedback, complaints, and satisfaction levels to develop strategies that enhance retention and dining experience. Maintain restaurant ambiance, cleanliness, staff conduct, and service delivery in line with brand standards. Collaborate with relevant departments to address recurring customer issues and implement effective solutions.

Business Growth & Strategy:
Partner with senior management to develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business goals. Support the planning and launch of new restaurant locations, including staffing, training, SOPs, and pre-opening activities. Identify opportunities to boost operational efficiency, sales, and profitability. Provide regular reports and insights on operational performance to senior leadership.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Coordinate with Marketing, Finance, HR, Procurement, and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth operations. Work with Marketing to prepare for promotions and new product launches. Collaborate with Procurement and Supply Chain to guarantee timely availability and quality of products. Align with HR on staffing and organizational development. Facilitate effective communication across all departments and outlets.

Required Qualifications
- Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in restaurant, food chain, hospitality, or multi-outlet operations.
- Proven senior operations management or leadership experience.
- Strong knowledge of restaurant operations, food cost control, inventory, labor management, and profitability.
- Experience managing multiple locations and large teams.
- Expertise in developing and implementing SOPs.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and people management skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
- In-depth understanding of food safety, hygiene, and quality standards.
- Proficient in operational reporting, KPIs, and performance management.
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Operations Management, or related field preferred.

Work Location:
This position requires in-person attendance.

Application Considerations:
Candidates should have at least 7 years of relevant experience and be available to join immediately or within an agreed timeframe.