Restaurant Excellence, Operations

DescriptionKFC CEE is seeking a versatile and operationally-savvy Restaurant Excellence (Rex) Manager to help drive operational excellence and build functional capabilities across the system. This "multi-hat" role is designed for a proactive leader who can manage core Rex processes, systems, and projects while also owning the operational learning and development (L&D) agenda. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in QSR / Retail, with the ability to optimize processes, manage technology rollouts, and develop robust programs for our operational teams across Central and Eastern EuropeResponsibilitiesRex Operations & Process Excellence: Operational Standards: Oversee and enforce core operational standards, including back-of-house layouts, equipment standards, and compliance protocols. Process Management: Manage key operational processes including vendor relationships and execution across markets. Capex & Equipment: Drive capex optimization by managing capex calculators, contributing to equipment engineering, and driving vendor discussions on ops technology. Action Planning: Support markets with the creation and execution of their action plans, tracking completion and addressing gaps with franchisees. Project Management: Lead and/or contribute to critical Rex projects aimed at improving efficiency and guest experience, such as launching new concepts (product, equipment, guest experience) and Capex reduction initiatives. Operational Capability & Development (L&D): Capability Building: Design and lead targeted capability-building initiatives and systems to enhance the skills and knowledge of our operational teams. Culture lead: act as a culture champion for the region, leading events which contribute to building a strong and positive culture Rex Technology & Systems: System Administration & Oversight: Manage the administration of key operational systems, including LMS, restaurant/employee data base, business intelligence tools and others, ensuring data integrity and user support. Ops Tech Rollouts: Support the management and rollout of ops technology solutions such as e-routines, including vendor management and field support. System Audits: Oversee the process for setting up and managing contractors as work auditors within our systems, ensuring correct classification and functionalityWorking RelationshipsHead of REX (Coach) – primary internal relationshipCOO CEE Broader CEE Ops teamField P&C Business PartnerAccount manager of key systems: Domo, Qualtrix, etcFranchise partnersQualificationsSkill RequirementsFamiliarity with the QSR landscape and operational dynamics in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is highly desirable, given the strategic importance of key franchisees in the region. Demonstrated ability to manage complex processes and drive compliance across a multi-franchise / market system. Strong understanding of restaurant technology, equipment, and capex planning, with an enthusiasm for innovation. Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple initiatives simultaneously. Analytical mindset with experience in interpreting and explaining performance data and metrics. Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage effectively with franchisees, internal teams, and global counterparts. Ability to assess and prioritize competing stakeholder goals, comfortable with ambiguity. Ability to travel frequently (at peak up to 30% of the time) Fluent in English (written and spoken) is essentialProficiency in at least one other major language from the CEE region (e.g. Polish, Romanian, Czech) is advantageous