New Store Opening Specialist

DescriptionCulinary Support Specialist/ NSO Specialist Job Description SummaryThe Culinary Support Specialist provides hands-on field support during the first 60 days of a new kiosk opening, guiding franchisees and store teams through opening, culinary training, and early stabilization across COFO and COCO operations. This role ensures every new location is opened, trained, and stabilized using one best way of working, and reinforces Signature Sushi as the standard for quality, consistency, presentation, and readiness.On Day 61, the Culinary Support Specialist completes a structured handoff of the partnership to the Franchise Business Partner, who assumes ongoing responsibility for the franchisee relationship. This role is highly travel-intensive and is designed for extended field deployment to support business needs. The Culinary Support Specialist reports to the Manager, Culinary Standards & Support. Key CompetenciesCulinary Standards Execution, Hands-on Coaching and Training, Food Safety and Quality Control, Adaptability in Fast-Changing Environments, Communication, Problem Solving, Organization and Follow-Through Duties & ResponsibilitiesProvide hands-on culinary and operational support during the first 60 days of new COFO and COCO kiosk openingsSupport locations where a franchisee is not yet in place or where staffing gaps require temporary field coverageDeliver opening and early post-opening culinary training to store teamsReinforce established culinary standards, Signature Sushi expectations, procedures, and one best way of working in the fieldCoach teams to execute products to the Signature Sushi standard, including quality, consistency, presentation, and readinessSupport store teams in executing production, food safety, merchandising, and readiness standardsHelp stabilize new or understaffed locations until permanent ownership and staffing are in placeCoach teams to follow documented processes rather than relying on individual preference or workaroundsIdentify operational, standards, or training gaps and communicate them to the Manager, Culinary Standards & SupportSupport the rollout of updated culinary standards, Signature Sushi tools, and training processesMaintain flexibility to respond quickly to changing opening priorities and business needsHelp protect Area Managers, Trainers, and Franchise Business Partners from extended in-store production coverage during openings and staffing gapsComplete a structured Day 60 handoff to the Franchise Business Partner, transferring open items, training status, and standards observations to ensure a seamless transition of the partnershipThis job posting describes the general duties and responsibilities for the position. Other duties may be assigned as needed. RequirementsQualificationsMinimum of 2 years of sushi experienceMinimum of 2 years of experience in foodservice, retail food operations, or culinary productionExperience training others in a store or field environment preferredStrong understanding of food quality, consistency, presentation, and standards executionAbility to work independently in fast-changing field environmentsStrong coaching, communication, and problem-solving skillsStrong organizational skills and follow-throughAbility to uphold standards while working hands-on in store operationsValid driver’s license; nearly constant travel is required, including extended assignments of 4 to 6 weeks at a time, weekends, changing schedules, and rapid deployment across multiple markets based on opening and staffing needsPhysical Requirements:Ability to work for extended periods in active retail food environments, including retail floors, kiosk locations, and field environmentsAbility to stand and walk for long periods and perform repetitive food preparation tasksAbility to lift, carry, push, or pull supplies, equipment, and product weighing up to 40 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodationAbility to bend, reach, squat, and use hands and arms to handle materials, tools, or equipmentAbility to work in environments that may include temperature variations, noise, and production activity typical of food operationsAbility to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended assignments away from homeMust maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with company policy Hana Brands is an Equal Opportunity Employer