JRG Partners is proud to announce an exclusive executive search for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) on behalf of our client, a premier and rapidly expanding multi-unit restaurant group based in the vibrant city of Orlando, Florida. This is a rare and career-defining opportunity for a visionary operations leader to join the C-suite of a well-capitalized, high-growth organization with over 40 successful locations and an aggressive strategy for future expansion. Our client has built a celebrated brand known for its exceptional quality, innovative concepts, and unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. As the new COO, you will be the central pillar of the company’s operational engine, responsible for steering the brand towards unprecedented levels of efficiency, profitability, and market leadership. You will inherit a strong foundation and be empowered to build upon it, implementing world-class systems and fostering a culture of excellence that permeates every level of the organization. This role is not merely about managing the present; it is about architecting the future. We are seeking a transformative leader who can scale complex operations, inspire large teams, and drive sustainable growth in a competitive landscape.
Role Overview for COO – Multi-Unit Restaurant Group (40+ Locations) | Orlando, FL
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and serving as a key member of the executive leadership team, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) will assume ultimate responsibility for the entire operational performance of the company’s portfolio. This executive will be a strategic partner to the CEO, translating the company’s long-term vision into a tangible, executable operational strategy. The COO’s mandate is broad and impactful, encompassing the oversight of all restaurant operations, supply chain management, new unit development, team leadership, and financial performance. The ideal candidate is a seasoned veteran of the multi-unit restaurant industry, possessing a deep understanding of the complexities of scaling a brand while maintaining impeccable standards of quality and service. You will be tasked with optimizing systems and processes to support our rapid growth trajectory, ensuring that as we expand, our operational foundation becomes stronger and more efficient. Your leadership will directly influence profitability, guest loyalty, and employee morale across the entire system. This is a hands-on, high-visibility role that demands a leader who can seamlessly transition between high-level strategic planning and in-the-weeds operational problem-solving. You will be the driving force ensuring that every one of our 40+ locations operates at its peak potential, delivering a consistent and exceptional brand experience to every guest, every time.
Key Responsibilities of COO – Multi-Unit Restaurant Group (40+ Locations) | Orlando, FL
The COO will direct and oversee a wide range of functions, with responsibilities including but not limited to:
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Collaborate with the CEO and other C-suite executives to establish and direct the company’s strategic roadmap. Translate high-level corporate goals into clear, actionable operational plans and performance metrics for all field and restaurant-level teams. Champion innovation and continuous improvement, identifying and implementing new technologies and processes to enhance efficiency and the guest experience.
Operational Excellence & Standardization
Conduct a comprehensive review of all current operational procedures, identifying opportunities for refinement and optimization. Develop, implement, and enforce best-in-class Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of restaurant operations, including food preparation, service standards, inventory management, and facilities maintenance. Ensure unwavering brand consistency and quality across all 40+ locations.
Financial Acumen & P&L Management
Hold full P&L responsibility for all company-operated restaurants. Develop and manage annual operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and financial forecasts. Meticulously analyze financial reports and KPIs to monitor performance, identify trends, and implement effective strategies to drive top-line sales and maximize bottom-line profitability. Lead initiatives for cost control, waste reduction, and labor optimization without compromising quality or service.
Team Leadership, Culture & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a large, geographically dispersed team, including Regional Directors, District Managers, and General Managers. Foster a positive, high-performance culture rooted in accountability, collaboration, and a passion for hospitality. Oversee the development of robust talent management programs, including recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and succession planning to build a strong leadership pipeline.
Guest Experience & Brand Integrity
Serve as the ultimate guardian of the guest experience. Implement systems to meticulously track and analyze guest feedback (NPS, online reviews, etc.) and use this data to drive meaningful improvements. Ensure that every touchpoint of the customer journey reflects the brand’s core values and commitment to excellence. Work in close partnership with the marketing department to ensure operational readiness and flawless execution of new product rollouts and promotional campaigns.
Supply Chain & Vendor Management
Oversee the entire supply chain, from procurement to distribution. Negotiate favorable terms with key vendors and suppliers to ensure a reliable supply of high-quality ingredients and materials while optimizing costs. Develop and manage relationships with national and regional partners to support the brand’s quality standards and growth initiatives.
New Unit Growth & Development
Play an instrumental role in the company’s expansion strategy. Partner with the real estate and development teams on site selection, design, and construction processes. Develop and execute a scalable and efficient New Restaurant Opening (NRO) playbook to ensure new locations open on time, on budget, and are set up for immediate success.
Compliance, Safety & Risk Management
Ensure all restaurants operate in strict compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including health codes, food safety standards (HACCP), and labor laws. Develop and implement comprehensive risk management protocols to protect the company’s assets, employees, and guests.
Requirements for the COO – Multi-Unit Restaurant Group (40+ Locations) | Orlando, FL
The ideal candidate will possess a formidable blend of operational expertise, strategic vision, and inspirational leadership. We have established a high bar for this pivotal role, and qualified candidates will demonstrate the following:
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience within the multi-unit restaurant, QSR, or fast-casual industry. A minimum of 5 years in a senior executive role (e.g., VP of Operations, Regional VP, COO) with P&L responsibility for a portfolio of at least 30+ locations is required.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Finance, or a related field is required. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is strongly preferred and will be a significant differentiator.
Proven Financial Acumen
Demonstrated mastery of P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis in a multi-unit context. Must have a proven track record of successfully driving revenue growth and improving profitability across a large portfolio.
Scalable Systems Thinker
Experience in a high-growth environment is critical. The candidate must have a history of successfully developing and implementing scalable systems, processes, and technologies to support rapid expansion without sacrificing quality or brand consistency.
Inspirational Leadership
Exceptional leadership and people-management skills. A proven ability to recruit, develop, and retain top-tier operational talent. Must be a culture-builder who can motivate and unite large teams around a shared vision of excellence.
Strategic & Analytical Mindset
The ability to think strategically and long-term, coupled with a data-driven, analytical approach to decision-making. Must be comfortable diving deep into operational and financial data to uncover insights and drive performance.
Exceptional Communication Skills
Superior written, verbal, and presentation skills. The ability to communicate effectively and build relationships with stakeholders at all levels, from front-line team members to the Board of Directors.
Industry Knowledge
Deep understanding of the restaurant industry, including knowledge of current industry trends and best practices, competitive landscape, and key success factors.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in rewarding its executive leadership for their significant contributions to the company’s success. The compensation and benefits package for the Chief Operating Officer is designed to be highly competitive and attract a leader of the highest caliber. The package includes:
- A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
- A substantial annual performance-based bonus structure tied to key corporate and operational metrics.
- A meaningful long-term incentive plan, including equity or phantom stock options.
- Comprehensive and premium health benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- A significant Paid Time Off (PTO) allowance, including vacation, sick days, and paid holidays.
- An executive car allowance or company vehicle.
- A comprehensive relocation assistance package for the ideal candidate, if required.
- Company-wide dining privileges and discounts.
- A budget for continued professional development, including conferences, certifications, and executive coaching.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. We are committed to a confidential, professional, and respectful recruitment process. If you are a results-oriented, visionary operations executive who meets the aforementioned qualifications and is ready to make a lasting impact on a thriving restaurant enterprise, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. All applications will be held in the strictest confidence.
To learn more about how JRG Partners connects top-tier talent with leading companies in the food service industry, please visit our COO Executive Search area page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
