Job: Chief Operating Officer (Food Service Industry)

Company Description

Our client is a leading food service organization operating a diverse portfolio of approximately 30 locations, ranging from coffee shops to full-service restaurants. With operations primarily concentrated in Miami (20 locations) and Las Vegas (10 locations), the company is committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and innovative dining solutions. As the organization continues to expand and evolve, they are seeking a visionary Chief Operating Officer to lead operational excellence, particularly focusing on the Las Vegas region while supporting the Miami operations as needed.

Objective of the Role

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be the driving force behind operational success, ensuring consistent performance, profitability, and growth across all Las Vegas locations and occasionally supporting the Miami operations. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will oversee day-to-day operations, implement strategic initiatives, and uphold the highest standards of service and efficiency. This individual will play a critical role in fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and customer-focused excellence within the organization.

Ideal Profile

The ideal candidate is an experienced operational leader with a proven track record in multi-unit food service or hospitality management. They excel in strategic planning, financial oversight, and team development, with a deep understanding of market dynamics in Las Vegas and Miami. This individual thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth environment and demonstrates exceptional problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee and manage daily operations across all Las Vegas locations, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and compliance with company policies and local regulations.
• Occasionally travel to Miami to support operational needs, implement best practices, and address critical challenges.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Strategic Planning and Execution

• Collaborate with the CEO to develop and implement strategic plans aligned with organizational goals and market opportunities.
• Identify growth opportunities, market trends, and areas for innovation to enhance customer experience and competitiveness.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans to ensure profitability and cost control.
• Drive revenue optimization strategies and ensure financial targets are met or exceeded.

Team Leadership

• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team across multiple locations, fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion while supporting the professional development of team members.

Guest Experience

• Ensure all locations consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences by implementing service standards and leveraging guest feedback for improvement.
• Lead initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Maintain compliance with health, safety, and regulatory requirements across all locations.
• Proactively identify and mitigate operational risks to ensure business continuity.

Requirements

Experience:

• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in the food service, restaurant, or hospitality industry, with a focus on multi-unit operations.
• Demonstrated success in operational management and revenue growth within a similar market.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field; MBA preferred.

Skills:

• Strong financial acumen, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills with a collaborative mindset.
• Proficiency in analyzing market trends, optimizing resources, and driving innovative solutions.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with the Las Vegas and Miami markets.
• Experience working with diverse food service formats, from coffee shops to full-service restaurants.