Area Director

About the Role

ACG BBQ, LLC, the largest licensed franchise of Sonny's BBQ with 30 locations across several states, is seeking an Area Director. This position starts as a traveling role managing restaurants across five markets to develop relationships, strengthen teams, and deeply understand operational processes. Training will include multiple markets, with flexibility needed to support various locations. As the company grows—with plans for up to eight new locations over five years—this role will transition into a permanent market position, requiring openness to relocation.

Responsibilities

• Supervise operational performance of restaurants in collaboration with the Director of Operations.
• Manage financial metrics including sales, profitability, and EBITDA budgets.
• Lead and support General Managers to ensure effective team and operational success.
• Provide hands-on training and development opportunities for staff and leadership.
• Perform strategic analysis and contribute to company-wide communication for continuous improvement.
• Foster an approachable leadership style that builds strong relationships and promotes a positive workplace culture.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Embody the company's vision and values.
• Ensure compliance with Sonny's BBQ brand standards in all restaurants.
• Contribute to annual budgeting and collaborate on marketing sales strategies against competitors.
• Analyze financial performance and devise strategies for enhancement with executive leadership.
• Conduct routine market visits spending approximately 75% of the week in restaurants.
• Manage operations team meetings and promptly address employee issues alongside HR.
• Recruit, train, develop, and coach General Managers and managers to maintain low turnover and identify future leaders.
• Maintain compliance with company policies and promote a safe work environment minimizing injuries.
• Strong leadership experience managing multiple teams and locations.
• Excellent financial acumen to meet budget goals and analyze ROI.
• Problem-solving abilities including data collection, analysis, and solution recommendations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, multiple restaurant technologies, and computer skills including word processing and databases.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills suitable for diverse audience presentations.
• Project management skills including task scheduling, meeting deadlines, and documenting processes.
• Commitment to guest service excellence.
• Willingness to travel within the region and manage remote teams effectively.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $100,000 depending on experience, location, and market.
• Monthly performance bonuses.
• Paid Time Off and comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401K plan with 4% company match.
• Manager meal benefits.
• Annual $2,500 vacation benefit after one year in management.

Additional Information

This role requires flexibility to travel extensively among markets initially with the prospect of future relocation to a permanent market assignment. Relocation assistance may be provided where applicable. Candidates passionate about people development, culture building, and contributing to a growing organization are encouraged to apply immediately.