Chief Operating Officer (COO)

The Company is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to provide strategic and hands-on operational leadership for a large portfolio of restaurants. The COO will be responsible for leading the existing Vice President of Operations and field operating team, establishing disciplined operating processes, and driving measurable improvements in sales, profitability, guest experience, and restaurant execution. The ideal candidate will have a background in family-dining, casual-dining, or full-service restaurants, with a preference for those with experience in a private equity-backed or entrepreneurial environment. Key duties include developing and executing operating strategies, maintaining a visible field presence, optimizing various operational aspects, and ensuring consistent execution of food safety, brand standards, and service expectations. Candidates for the COO position at the company should have at least 15 years of progressive restaurant operations experience, with a proven track record of success in a senior leadership role. The role requires a leader with an energetic, highly visible leadership style, strong analytical and financial capabilities, and excellent communication, relationship-building, and talent-development skills. The COO will be expected to travel extensively and must be willing to spend substantial time with field teams. Responsibilities also include building a strong pipeline of operating talent, partnering with various departments to align priorities, and supporting broader transformation and growth initiatives. The successful candidate will be a hands-on and analytically minded restaurant operator, combining commercial judgment, financial discipline, and a genuine commitment to developing people.