Operating Partner

Job Title: WB Operating Partner

Classification: Exempt

Supervisor: Area Operations Coach

Managerially Responsible For: Assistant Managers, Shift Leads, Team Members

Position Overview (Role):

The Operating Partner at Whataburger-Vibe Restaurants is responsible for directing and developing a strong team to achieve operational excellence in their restaurant. They report to the Area Coach and lead all aspects of the "Family Member" experience, including talent management, recruitment, training, and promotions. They also inspire the team to succeed, create action plans based on performance and financial goals, and ensure the restaurant is always clean, safe, and "ready for business".

Essential Job Functions:

1. Leadership & Team Development

• Leads by example and reinforces team behaviors consistent with the company's values
• Inspires and celebrates the team
• Provides leadership and mentoring, aligning the team around a common vision, and holding themselves and others accountable
• Facilitates discussions to ensure clear expectations and address underperforming areas
• Exercises independent judgment in daily operations to ensure efficient performance
• Identifies team members with potential for career progression
• Evaluates progress and provides daily feedback to the management team and team members

1. Operational Excellence & Customer Experience

• Trains and coaches Team Leaders and Managers to lead shifts and serve a quality experience to guests
• Teaches managers how to work as a High Performing Team using operational tools
• Monitors food safety practices to ensure all health and safety standards are met
• Coaches managers and team leaders on floor management and shift success
• Instills a customer-service mindset and reinforces the brand by engaging with customers and creating a welcoming environment
• Works with managers and the Area Operations Coach to execute operational plans using reporting, customer, and labor metrics

1. Hiring & Financial Management

• Leads recruiting, interviewing, and hiring to maintain appropriate staffing levels for high-performing teams
• Develops budgets, expense plans, and sales goals
• Manages profit and loss and oversees financial tasks like cash reporting and managing labor and food expenses

Accountabilities:

The Operating Partner is accountable for the in-restaurant Family Member experience and holds themselves and others accountable. They also create action plans based on performance data and financial goals.

Responsibilities:

• Lead by example to reinforce team behaviors consistent with Whataburger-Vibe Restaurants Values
• Provide leadership and mentoring to Family Members
• Facilitate discussions among Family Members and Managers
• Exercise a high level of independent judgment and discretion in managing daily restaurant operations
• Train and coach Team Leaders and Managers
• Lead recruiting, interviewing, and hiring
• Monitor food safety practices
• Develop the budget, expense plans, and sales goals
• Manage profit and loss

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Age: Must be at least 18 years of age
• Education & Experience:
• High school diploma/GED or equivalent work experience preferred
• 3-5 years of experience in the restaurant industry preferred
• Previous experience in a restaurant leadership position preferred
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint) preferred