Area Director of Operations

Position Summary:  

As an  Area Director at IHOP, you'll be an essential part of our leadership team, supporting the operations and success of multiple restaurants. You'll work closely with the Regional Director of Operations to ensure our guests have amazing experiences, our teams are motivated, and our business thrives. If you're passionate about hospitality and ready to take your career to the next level, this role is for you! 

This is a hybrid role based out of a suitable home office, with regular communication and availability expected during business hours. However, the core of this role is in the field—approximately 90% of your time should be spent visiting and supporting restaurants. Being present in our locations is essential to driving performance, building relationships, and ensuring operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Business Performance & Financial Accountability

• Own and deliver market-level P&L performance across all assigned restaurants
• Drive sales growth, profitability, and cost control (labor, food, controllables)
• Analyze performance data and implement corrective actions
• Partner with Finance on budgeting and forecasting

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and hold General Managers accountable for results and behaviors
• Build leadership capability through structured coaching and development
• Identify and develop high-potential talent for succession
• Ensure execution of onboarding and leadership development programs

Operational Excellence

• Ensure consistent execution of brand standards across all locations
• Drive improvements in guest satisfaction, speed, and service quality
• Conduct restaurant visits, audits, and performance reviews
• Optimize staffing and labor management practices

Culture & Engagement

• Model and reinforce company purpose and S.H.I.N.E. values
• Build a high-performance, people-first culture
• Drive engagement, retention, and recognition
• Ensure a respectful and accountable work environment

Talent & Staffing

• Ensure restaurants are staffed with qualified team members
• Support recruiting and hiring of General Managers and key leaders
• Build internal talent pipelines
• Partner with Culture and People on workforce planning

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and regulations
• Maintain food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards
• Address employee relations issues with Culture and People
• Mitigate operational and financial risks

Strategic Execution

• Translate company strategy into actionable plans at the restaurant level
• Lead rollout of new initiatives and systems
• Ensure consistency across all locations
• Provide feedback to senior leadership

Communication & Alignment

• Serve as the link between field operations and executive leadership
• Communicate priorities and expectations clearly
• Lead market meetings and performance reviews

Qualifications:  

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred. 
• Previous experience in restaurant management or a leadership role preferred. 
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work well with diverse teams. 
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions in a fast-paced environment. 
• Basic understanding of financial concepts and the ability to manage budgets. 
• Flexibility to travel within the area as needed. 

Competencies:

• Teamwork 
• Communication 
• Problem-solving 
• Adaptability 
• Leadership 
• Customer focus 

Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 
• Ability to learn and use restaurant management software. 
• Organizational and time management skills. 
• Attention to detail. 

Physical Requirements:  

• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift and carry trays of food and beverages, typically up to 50 pounds. 
• Standing and Walking: Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the shift. 
• Bending and Reaching: Frequent bending, reaching, and twisting. 
• Manual Dexterity: Good hand-eye coordination. 
• In the Field Operable actions 90% of the Time
• Communication Skills: Clear verbal communication to interact with people. 
• Temperature Tolerance: Ability to work in varying temperatures. 

Benefits: 

• Holistic Well-Being: Health insurance, wellness programs, flexible hours, and paid time off for full-time staff.  
• Financial Security: Competitive pay, paid weekly, retirement plans, and financial planning services.  
• Career Growth: Training programs, clear career paths, and mentorship opportunities.  
• Recognition: Performance-based incentives, bonuses, and employee recognition programs.  
• Inclusive Environment: A diverse and supportive workplace with open communication and teamwork.  
• Flexibility: Customizable benefits and support for major life events.