Chief Operating Officer (Food & Franchise Industry)

JOB SUMMARY

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will lead the establishment and expansion of a food and franchise business, overseeing the launch, standardization, and scaling of multiple F&B outlets. This role requires expertise in startup operations, franchise development, multi-unit management, and strategic growth. The COO will focus on building operational frameworks, optimizing processes, ensuring quality control, and driving profitability in a rapidly growing food service brand.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Business Establishment & Franchise Development

• Lead the setup and expansion of a new food & beverage brand, chain, or franchise model from concept to full operation.
• Develop and implement franchise operation models, manuals, and guidelines to ensure brand consistency.
• Oversee the site selection, lease negotiation, and store design process for new outlets.
• Develop and execute a scalable expansion plan, ensuring operational feasibility and market readiness.

Operational Strategy & Multi-Outlet Management

• Create and standardize SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) for kitchen operations, service quality, and customer experience.
• Set up supply chain logistics, vendor partnerships, and procurement systems to support multiple locations efficiently.
• Ensure seamless coordination across kitchen, front-of-house, delivery, and digital ordering systems.
• Implement cost control measures, improving operational efficiency and profit margins.

Financial Performance & Profitability

• Develop and manage P&L (Profit & Loss) statements, budgets, and financial forecasts for all outlets.
• Optimize pricing strategies, menu engineering, and revenue generation streams (dine-in, takeaway, delivery, and catering).
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or customer experience.

Supply Chain, Procurement & Quality Control

• Establish a robust supply chain with competitive vendor agreements and cost-efficient procurement strategies.
• Ensure adherence to food safety regulations, HACCP standards, and quality assurance protocols.
• Implement inventory management systems to minimize waste and improve stock control.

Customer Experience & Brand Positioning

• Develop and implement customer service training programs to ensure excellence across all outlets.
• Monitor customer feedback, online reviews, and market trends to refine service and product offerings.
• Work closely with marketing teams to create brand awareness, loyalty programs, and promotional campaigns.

Leadership & Team Development

• Build and develop a high-performing operations team, including regional managers, franchise partners, and store teams.
• Design and execute training programs for staff and franchisees to ensure consistent operations.
• Foster a culture of innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Digital Transformation & Technology Implementation

• Implement POS (Point of Sale) systems, digital ordering platforms, and CRM solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
• Integrate data-driven decision-making to optimize supply chain, staffing, and customer engagement.
• Leverage automation and AI-based analytics for inventory, demand forecasting, and customer preferences.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

This position requires relocation to Chiang Mai, Thailand with Visa and Work Permit provided.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree inฺ Business, Hospitality, Food Science, or a related field; MBA preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum 12 - 15 years in F&B operations, franchise development, or restaurant chain management, with at least 5+ years in a senior leadership role (COO, VP of Operations, or equivalent).
• Proven track record in launching and scaling multi-unit food businesses, franchise models, and high-growth F&B operations.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, cost control, and revenue optimization.
• Expertise in supply chain management, food safety regulations, and customer service excellence.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and scale teams while ensuring operational consistency across multiple locations.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Restaurant & Franchise Business Setup
• Strategic Planning & Business Expansion
• Multi-Unit Operations & Performance Management
• Financial Acumen & Cost Optimization
• Supply Chain & Vendor Negotiation
• Customer Experience & Service Excellence
• Digital & Technological Integration in F&B
• Leadership & People Development