Store Opening Specialist

Description

The Store Opening Specialist is responsible for leading in-store execution for Krispy Krunchy Chicken New Store Openings (NSOs) within an assigned region. 

This role supports opening readiness, training, operational setup, opening-week execution, and post-opening transition to ensure each location opens on time, on brand, and to operational standards.This role requires strong operational knowledge, organization, communication, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced field environment.The ideal candidate is highly organized, operationally strong, adaptable, and capable of executing detailed opening plans while training Operators and store teams through the opening process.

Requirements

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead execution of New Store Openings, including opening readiness, physical setup, training, and opening-week operational support.
• Prepare stores for opening by coordinating setup of equipment, stations, merchandising materials, smallwares, and operational supplies.
•  Partner with Operators and store leadership to receive, organize, and validate Sysco deliveries, smallwares, equipment setup, and operational readiness.
• Install and validate NSO kits, signage, menu boards, graphics, merchandising materials, and approved brand standards.
• Guide setup and operational readiness of hot food cases, prep areas, service stations, and cooking equipment while validating temperatures and equipment functionality.
• Train Operators and store teams on food safety, sanitation, recipes, equipment operation, point-of-sale systems, online ordering platforms, Packaging for Profit, and operational procedures.
• Execute opening, operational, and closing checklists throughout opening week to ensure standards and expectations are met consistently.
• Complete and maintain required opening documentation including temperature logs, waste logs, warranty submissions, readiness checklists, and training acknowledgements.
• Ensure all opening activities align with the most current Operations Execution Manual and approved KKC training materials.
• Capture warranties, operational documentation, and required opening records within Salesforce and/or other approved business systems.
• Certify Operator and store team capability to independently operate the business
• successfully by completion of training.
• Support operational execution during opening week by reinforcing standards related to food quality, cleanliness, guest experience, and operational consistency.
• Conduct formal transition and handoff to the Operations Support Coach during opening week to support long-term operational success and continuity.
• Partner with other Store Opening Leaders and cross-functional teams to execute operational priorities, opening timelines, and readiness expectations.
• Participate in planning and alignment discussions to ensure Store Opening and Operations Support activities remain coordinated and consistent.
• Support Operations Support Coaches with follow-up training, operational questions, and field support as needed.
• Assist with additional operational projects, training initiatives, and field support activities as assigned.
• Maintain professionalism, integrity, accountability, and commitment to company values and brand standards during all operator and store interactions.

Job Requirements:

• Current ServSafe Food Manager Certification, or ability to obtain within the first 60 days.
• 2-4 years of restaurant, convenience store, retail, foodservice, or store opening experience.
• Strong operational knowledge including food safety, sanitation, merchandising, food preparation, equipment operation, point-of-sale systems, and back-office procedures.
•  Strong communication, organizational, training, and problem-solving skills.
•  Ability to manage multiple priorities and execute effectively in a fast-paced field environment.
•  Ability to work independently while maintaining strong communication and accountability.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Salesforce, and other business systems preferred.
• Ability to travel up to 80%, including overnight and air travel. Evening and weekend travel may be required.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and ability to meet company travel requirements.
• Ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, drive for long periods, bend, twist, and work on ladders.
•  Must reside within assigned business unit.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

•  Strong operational execution and training capability.
•  Ability to coach Operators and store teams through hands-on learning and opening execution.
•  Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
•  Ability to analyze operational issues and identify practical solutions quickly in a fast-paced environment.
•  Ability to maintain strong cross-functional partnerships and communicate effectively across multiple teams and stakeholders.
•  Ability to remain calm under pressure while managing multiple projects, timelines, and operational priorities simultaneously.

Benefits:

•  Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
•  401(k) with Company Match
•  Wellness Program
•  Unlimited Paid Time Off
•  Ongoing Team Member Development