Director of Operations & Commercial Strategy, Fast-Food Franchise, Salary package £120,000 – £130,000 per annum, Greater Midlands/North Wales/North West
Our client is a forward-thinking, people-led, fast-food hospitality group, driven by operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.
They are seeking a Director of Operations & Commercial Strategy to lead a talented multi-disciplinary team responsible for driving performance, project delivery, technology, facilities, communications, and commercial success across the business.
This is a pivotal role within the senior leadership team — setting strategic direction, improving efficiency, and enhancing the guest experience across a diverse restaurant portfolio. The successful candidate will be a dynamic, hands-on leader who can combine commercial insight with operational expertise to deliver outstanding results.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
Define and deliver a five-year strategy for operational excellence and growth.
Partner with HR, Finance, and Operations leaders to align initiatives across all functions.
Establish and manage governance structures that ensure projects are delivered to time, budget, and quality.
Commercial & Operational Performance
Drive operational consistency and efficiency across multi-site operations.
Monitor and improve key metrics related to profitability, service standards, and guest experience.
Provide commercial insight and input into budgeting, forecasting, and business reviews.
Digital & Innovation
Lead digital transformation across the business, championing technology and AI solutions to improve efficiency and insight.
Oversee IT strategy and vendor relationships, ensuring seamless, secure, and reliable operations.
Facilities & Compliance
Oversee facilities and maintenance across the estate, ensuring operational efficiency, safety, and compliance.
Lead on risk, governance, and health & safety initiatives.
Develop robust frameworks to ensure legal and regulatory compliance at every site.
Team Leadership
Lead, coach, and develop a multi-functional team, fostering collaboration, accountability, and performance.
Inspire teams to deliver exceptional results in a fast-paced, people-led environment.
The Ideal Candidate
Proven track record in senior operations leadership within hospitality, catering, or other multi-site environments.
Commercially astute with strong analytical, project, and change management skills.
Excellent communicator with the ability to engage and influence at all levels.
Experienced in driving digital transformation and operational excellence initiatives.
Knowledge of risk, governance, and compliance within large operational settings.
Strategic thinker who can deliver both vision and practical results.
What’s in it for the successful Director of Operations & Commercial Strategy?
£80,000–£90,000 base salary (45-hour contract)
Bonus & Long-Term Incentive Plan (up to 50% of salary at year 5 & 10)
Private medical, income protection, life insurance, and health cash plan
28 days holiday, rising to 38 days with service
Career progression within a growing, ambitious hospitality group
Electric fleet vehicle or Car Allowance (£450 pcm)
Employee benefits including discounts, meals on duty, and wellbeing support