Director of Operations

About the Role

The Director of Operations supports the mission, vision, and values of First Watch by developing General Managers and restaurant management teams to increase sales, improve profitability, and ensure employee and guest satisfaction while upholding the "You First" culture. This role oversees the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

Responsibilities

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants, focusing on management development, sales, profitability, planning, and customer and employee relations.
• Trains, coaches, and develops General Managers and Operations Managers through performance feedback and evaluations.
• Follows up on the training of MIT’s/CAFE’s and hourly employees, working closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress.
• Ensures development of Operations Managers in compliance with First Watch management development programs.
• Executes manpower planning to continuously develop the management team and ensures timely, cost-effective recruitment and training of restaurant-level management.
• Maintains a safe and harassment-free workplace in all restaurants.
• Takes quick and responsible action to resolve problems, including addressing individual or staff performance issues and personality conflicts.
• Develops and meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments and General and Administrative expenses.
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent; concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing, or management is preferred.
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi-unit restaurant industry operations.
• Proven track record of achieving results and building and maintaining successful teams.
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality.
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership, integrity, and promoting team success.
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry.
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel frequently within the assigned market.

About Us

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept, serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch using the freshest ingredients. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature high-quality flavors at their peak, including elevated classics, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and signature Million Dollar Bacon.

For every kid’s meal served, First Watch donates a portion to organizations making a positive community impact, raising approximately $2.0 million to date. Recognized as the #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 and named the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute in 2024 and 2025, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.