District Manager

Leap Brands; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Leap Brands is seeking a District Manager based in Chicago to oversee 6-9 locations in the fast casual restaurant sector. The role focuses on operational consistency, driving performance, and developing General Managers. Ideal candidates will have strong multi-unit leadership experience, be metrics-driven, and demonstrate success in P&L management. This position demands a hands-on leader who can thrive in a fast-paced growth environment with operational excellence as a top priority.

Qualifications

• Experience managing 5 to 10 locations in the fast casual or quick service restaurant industry.
• Strong understanding of labor planning and food cost control.
• Ability to lead a hands-on field-based leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations for 6 to 9 locations.
• Lead, coach, and develop General Managers.
• Own district-level P&L performance.
• Execute operational playbooks and training programs.
• Conduct regular field visits to support store leadership.

Skills

Multi-unit leadership experience

P&L management

Communication skills

Job description

Job Title: District Manager
Location: Multi-State
Seniority: Senior Manager
Industry: Fast Casual Restaurants
Function: Operations Leadership

Overview

A private equity backed fast casual restaurant group is seeking a District Manager to oversee approximately 6 to 9 locations. This role is responsible for driving operational consistency, developing General Managers, and delivering strong financial and guest experience results across the district. The ideal candidate is hands‑on, metrics‑driven, and comfortable leading from the field in a fast‑paced growth environment.

Responsibilities

Oversee day‑to‑day operations for 6 to 9 fast casual locations, ensuring execution of brand standards, food quality, speed of service, and guest experience.

Lead, coach, and develop General Managers with a focus on accountability, performance improvement, and internal talent development.

Own district‑level P&L performance including labor management, scheduling, food and inventory controls, and overall profitability.

Execute operational playbooks, SOPs, training programs, and company initiatives consistently across all locations.

Conduct regular field visits to support store leadership, identify gaps, and drive operational excellence.

Partner with HR, training, and leadership on hiring, onboarding, performance management, and succession planning.

Support new store openings, remodels, and staffing transitions within the district as needed.

Ensure compliance with food safety, cleanliness, staffing, and brand standards at all times.

Analyze operational and financial metrics, identify trends, and implement action plans to improve results.

Requirements

Multi‑unit leadership experience in fast casual or quick service restaurants required.

Proven experience managing 5 to 10 locations or a comparable operational scope.

Strong understanding of P&L management, labor planning, food cost control, and operational metrics.

Demonstrated success hiring, developing, and retaining General Managers and leadership teams.

Comfortable in a field‑based, hands‑on leadership role with regular travel between locations.

Strong communication skills, problem‑solving ability, and operational discipline.

Experience in a private equity backed, growth‑oriented, or performance‑driven environment preferred.

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