VP of Operations

Leaning in is what the Smash in Smashburger is all about!

Our mission is to make a better burger, every time!  To do that, you cannot just sit back.  We believe the more you lean in in life, the more you get out!   We are looking for people who will put their back and their heart into it everything they do!  Who live and breathe the Smashburger Values:

1.    Stay Hungry (Speed with Excellence)

2.    Make Room (Humility to Listen and Learn)

3.    Have Each Other’s Backs (Spirit of Family & Fun)

4.    Take Pride (Guest Focus)

5.    Walk the Walk (Integrity)

Position Overview: The Vice President of Operations will serve as a key strategic partner to the CEO and executive leadership team, driving the overall operational vision, strategy, and execution for Smashburger. This is a high-impact role that blends strategic thinking with operational excellence to deliver exceptional business performance and a world-class guest experience.

You will oversee and align all aspects of operational management, collaborating cross-functionally to ensure that Smashburger achieves its ambitious goals. This role demands a forward-thinking leader capable of influencing at the highest levels while driving day-to-day operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Serve as a critical thought leader, partnering with the CEO to define and execute Smashburger’s long-term strategic vision and operational roadmap.
• Translate corporate objectives into actionable operational strategies to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.
• Identify and lead transformational initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, scalability, and innovation across all markets.
• Oversee and influence the development of Smashburger’s annual business plan, ensuring alignment across all functions.

Corporate-Owned Restaurants:

• Provide executive oversight of corporate-owned restaurant operations, ensuring each location delivers on key performance metrics, including revenue, profitability, and guest satisfaction.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to implement enterprise-wide initiatives, ensuring consistent execution and measurable results.
• Leverage technology and analytics to optimize operations, enhance decision-making, and drive data-informed improvements.
• Foster a culture of accountability, empowering leaders at all levels to achieve their goals and exceed expectations.

Franchise Operations:

• Establish and strengthen relationships with franchise partners, aligning their operations with Smashburger’s brand standards, culture, and growth strategy.
• Act as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to franchise operators, ensuring operational excellence and financial success across the system.
• Oversee the development and delivery of support structures, tools, and resources for franchisees to drive alignment and mutual success.

People Leadership:

• Build and inspire a world-class operations leadership team, providing mentorship, vision, and professional development opportunities.
• Champion a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Lead by example, embodying Smashburger’s core values and fostering collaboration and trust across teams.

Financial & Operational Excellence:

• Oversee operational budgets, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to maximize ROI.
• Analyze and interpret financial and operational data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance profitability, streamline processes, and reduce costs without compromising quality or guest experience.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress, measure success, and inform strategic decisions.

Guest Experience:

• Set the vision for a consistently exceptional guest experience, ensuring that Smashburger exceeds expectations at every touchpoint.
• Lead efforts to innovate and enhance the guest journey, leveraging technology and insights to deliver a seamless and personalized experience.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of a High School Diploma or equivalent; Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or related field preferred; MBA strongly preferred.
• 15 years of progressive leadership experience in multi-unit operations, with a minimum of 8 years in a senior executive or VP role within a restaurant or hospitality setting.
• Proven track record of scaling operations and delivering business growth in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Extensive experience in both corporate and franchise restaurant operations, with demonstrated success in aligning diverse stakeholders around a common vision.
• Strong financial acumen with expertise in budgeting, P&L management, and cost control.
• Exceptional leadership skills with a history of building, developing, and retaining high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus across all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency with enterprise-level technology systems and tools, including data analytics platforms.

Travel:
Willingness to travel as required to oversee operations across various markets.

Why Join Smashburger? At Smashburger, we are committed to creating an exceptional dining experience through our fresh, made-to-order burgers and dedication to hospitality. As the VP of Operations, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic, fast-growing brand while fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. Join us in our mission to serve the best burgers and create lasting memories for our guests.

Smashburger is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Smashburger is committed to providing qualified individuals with disabilities reasonable accommodations to perform the essential functions of their jobs.

Please note this job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities. These may evolve as the business needs change.