Area Operations Leader

Area Operations Leader Tikka Brands Restaurants Albuquerque, NM Position Overview Tikka Brands is seeking a motivated Area Operations Leader to support multiple restaurant locations and concepts. This role serves as the key connection between the Director of Operations and Store Leaders/Associates, ensuring operational standards, training, and company initiatives execute consistently across all stores. The Area Operations Leader plays a critical role in maintaining food quality, developing leadership teams, and ensuring operational performance aligns with company standards. This role is ideal for leaders passionate about team development, operational excellence, and growing within an expanding restaurant group. Key Responsibilities: Operational Execution Ensure consistent execution of brand standards and BPSOPs (Brand Process Standard Operating Procedures) across assigned locations. Monitor food quality, cooking procedures, and menu consistency. Conduct regular store visits to evaluate operational performance and ensure brand standards are upheld. Leadership & Team Development Coach and mentor Store Leaders and leadership teams. Identify and develop high-potential associates for future leadership roles. Support store leadership in building strong teams and maintaining positive associate engagement. Training & Implementation Ensure teams are trained on new LTO menu items, cooking processes, and operational updates. Follow up with store leaders to ensure training is completed and executed consistently. Communication & Initiative Execution Coordinate operational messaging and initiatives from the Director of Operations to store teams. Ensure new company initiatives, procedures, and updates are implemented effectively across locations. Performance & Accountability Monitor key performance indicators including food quality, labor performance, guest experience, and operational execution. Work with store leaders to develop action plans when stores fall below brand standards or KPI targets. Hiring & Talent Development Lead or assist in initial interviews for leadership and key hourly positions. Support the development of future leaders within the organization. Associate Support Provide coaching and guidance to store leadership regarding associate performance. Support leadership teams in addressing performance concerns and disciplinary actions when necessary. Growth Opportunity This role is designed for leaders who want to grow with the company. High-performing Area Operations Leaders may have opportunities to expand into: Director of Operations roles Training leadership teams supporting company growth Expansion support for future locations and new markets Important Role Focus This role is focused on execution of brand standards and leadership development. While creativity and innovation are valued within the company, recipe development or operational process redesign are not primary responsibilities of this role. Individuals interested in contributing in those areas must first demonstrate strong operational leadership and mastery of this position. Qualifications 3+ years of restaurant leadership experience (multi-unit experience preferred) Strong ability to coach, mentor, and develop teams Experience implementing operational standards and training programs Strong communication and leadership skills Ability to manage multiple locations and priorities Passion for hospitality and team development Pay: From $52,500.00 per year Benefits: Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Referral program Work Location: In person