Director of Operations

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Position OverviewThis is an exciting opportunity to join a brand that is a highly recognised, established market leader in their field – multi-award winning and highly respected within the franchise industry.The Director of Operations is responsible for helping to define the strategic direction and executing the tactical elements of the role, as well as the day-to-day running of the franchise network. With a focus on the commercials, this person will be tasked with driving the business forward, to meet the company’s objectives for franchisee acquisition and growth targets, whilst maintaining and enhancing the brand’s reputation for outstanding service to its customers.Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Working with the Brand Leader to develop, operate and promote the company’s business and brand. Agreeing business plans and budgets, based on corporate goals and growth objectives.
• Develop and implement procedures and tools to promote communication and information flow between the company and its franchisees.
• Instrumental in driving new sales and the acquisition of new franchisees through events, exhibitions, leveraging the shared marketing team to drive new enquiries.
• Working across internal departments (Marketing & Finance) to ensure that franchisees receive the support that they need to successfully develop their businesses as per their individual plans.
• Organise and oversee regional franchise meetings and any other training sessions as required, assisting with basic training for on-boarding new franchisees.
• Establish operating procedures as/when required and ensure execution. Develop and enhance existing processes and procedures to ensure best practice.
• Work with existing franchisees in the development of their sales.
• Resolve any operational issues, performance issues or compliance issues across the network nationally, taking all steps to safeguard the brand’s reputation.
• Work with the Brand Leader to develop and support the management of the Franchise Support team, ensuring that they understand and carry out their duties and responsibilities effectively. Undertake the same approach with any other support personnel within the business. Assist and coach the team in working with and supporting the franchisees as required.
• Work alongside the Brand Leader to recruit new personnel into the business, as well as assisting with performance management, in line with company processes and procedures. Resolve any HR issues with support from HR/ Legal department.
• Ensure that the business complies with all current legislation and regulations as required.
• Work with the Brand Leader to assist with the management of the Business Development team to ensure that the franchisees’ financial performances are healthy and in line with overall objectives set. This will also include helping with setting financial budgets and developing business plans.
• Be a visible leader to the franchise network through regular face-to-face engagement with both franchisees and suppliers and by providing frequent brand updates.
• Be readily accessible to franchisees, suppliers, and colleagues.
• Establish a strong message of urgency to complete tasks and activities efficiently and accurately, underpinned by strong KPI’s.

Supervisory ResponsibilitiesWorking towards having direct responsibility for the Franchise Support team, as well as any other support personnel.Skills/Experience Required

• Previous/current experience as an Operations or Sales Director within a franchise network business model or industry experience at senior level.
• Excellent commercial attributes – very good business acumen, sales-focused, relationship builder and a strong networker with a high proficiency in ‘people’ skills.
• Lead from the front in this hands-on role, enjoys working with and through people to deliver positive results.
• Excellent trainer, coach, and mentor, supportive of new personnel and franchise partners.
• Educated to degree level or equivalent (preferred).
• UK driving license with flexibility to travel nationally.