Field Training Manager

Field Training Manager Job Description The Field Training Manager owns, builds, and manages the overall field and stores training strategy and systems for all Zankou Chicken stores, including future new store openings. The role oversees team member and manager in‑store training experiences, aids in planning and hands‑on training of new store openings, conducts in‑store product testing and training, facilitates training classes and certifications, and manages trainer scheduling. The Field Training Manager is an essential member of the Field Leadership Team and reports directly to the Director of Training and Development. Objective The Field Training Manager is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive training strategies to elevate the performance of team members, managers, and trainers across all Zankou Chicken locations. What We’re Looking For 3+ years as a Restaurant General Manager with at least one year as a certified training manager and a minimum of 2 years of multi‑unit restaurant training experience. Rated as a High Performer with a Restaurant General Manager‑comparable skill set. Ability to operate the business in the following areas: People and Culture processes that align with the team member life cycle from selection to retention. Financial knowledge, core system execution, COGS, labor management, written documentation, food safety, audits, and knowledge of state and federal laws. Experience with training systems (LMS) for hourly team members, in‑store trainers, and key employees. Proficient in using a variety of communication systems and managing multiple projects in cooperation with various leadership teams or District Managers while achieving desired results. Willing to travel within the state and outside of the market as requested. Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred; significant relevant experience may substitute for formal education. Ability to work a flexible schedule based on business demands. Key Responsibilities Work Location Reports directly to and is accountable to the Training Department based at the Vernon Home Office location unless otherwise assigned to another location due to business needs. Team Member Development Train and develop market team members, trainers, Managers in Training (MITs), and leadership. Regularly observe and assess team members to identify potential talent and opportunities for growth. Offer targeted coaching based on business needs and company initiatives, ensuring alignment with Zankou Chicken’s standards. Deliver constructive feedback, training, re‑direction, coaching, and support to team members, helping them achieve their full potential. Facilitate skill enhancement programs to improve team member performance and engagement. Guide team members through the Zankou Chicken Journey Career Path, supporting their professional development and career progression. Certify in‑store trainers and managers in training with a General Manager. Trainers Maintain regular communication with in‑store trainers to gather input, address concerns, and provide additional support. Assist trainers in developing their skills and techniques to ensure effective training delivery. Establish a feedback loop with trainers to continuously improve training programs and address any gaps. Ensure trainers have access to necessary resources and materials to conduct effective training sessions. Manager in Training (MIT) & Leadership Development (Career Path) Regularly observe leadership to identify potential talent and opportunities for growth. Schedule MIT orientations and write training schedules. Perform shoulder‑to‑shoulder, in‑person training with MIT. Visit MIT at least once per week and schedule weekly follow‑up phone calls. Hold weekly update calls with District Managers and General Managers on MIT progress. Hold meetings to gauge knowledge retention and the ability to execute standard operating procedures. Conduct weekly training binder and LMS audits of each MIT to ensure activity completion. Plan, organize, and schedule certifications for MIT with the Corporate Chef and/or District Manager. Facilitate the transition of MITs into assigned stores (TRANSITION WEEKS) and validate that they are set up for success. Facilitation Schedule state food safety exams. Build content for and conduct Train the Trainer webinars. Assist with scheduled training meetings (GM meetings, trainer meetings, etc.). Facilitate or participate in scheduled calls and meetings. Store Support & Reporting Provide weekly updates (progress reports) on all trainees’ progress to leadership. Ensure all required training records as defined by the training program are documented, tracked, filed, and communicated as requested. Develop and execute training plans with District Managers for stores whose food safety assessment falls below 70. Targeted coaching with stores (salaried and hourly managers) whose audits fall below set standards. Transition new General Managers into their assigned stores, acting as an extra leader or providing planned/targeted coaching. Capable of running management shifts and providing manager/GM vacation relief as needed. Support and/or facilitate sections of District Manager audits. NSO Management Facilitate or participate in the Train the Trainer sessions before new store training to ensure trainers are ready to kick off their first sessions and execute the training schedule. Manage NSO teams with the Training Manager, GM, and District Manager. Facilitate or participate in a large group new team member orientation at NSO. Collaborate with the Training Manager, GM, and District Manager to choose hourly trainers for the new store opening. Plan and organize the opening training schedule with the Training Manager, District Manager, GM, trainers, and leadership team. Manage breaks. Ensure all training materials are printed for NSO training sessions. Assist in managing the training budget (hours & dollars) through the Training Manager. Conduct hands‑on training. Facilitate daily training schedule and time management. Ensure the trainer’s hours, breaks, and mileage are budgeted and paid. Rollouts Implement training of new products and/or procedures, ensuring implementation and execution. Schedule and organize training sessions/events. Teach sessions aligned with rollouts. Schedule audits for District Managers and General Managers as reminders to track compliance with certain initiatives. Provide one‑on‑one coaching with hourly/salaried managers and General Managers. Additional Certifications Required Completion of all Zankou Chicken training modules. ANSI Food Safety Manager Certificate. Manager Sexual Harassment Certification. Salary Range (commensurate with experience) $90,000 - $100,000 This comprehensive job description ensures the Field Training Manager is well‑equipped to lead and develop team members, manage new store openings, and ensure the implementation of training programs with attention to detail. #J-18808-Ljbffr