Franchise Business Consultant (Remote)

Position: Franchise Business Consultant Status: Exempt Location: Minneapolis, MN Department: Operations Reports To: Director of Franchise Operations Position Summary: Franchise Business Consultants are responsible for an assigned portfolio of Franchisees and serve as trusted partners in driving performance. They collaborate closely with Franchisees to set, execute, and exceed territory goals across sales, profitability, and unit growth. To achieve these outcomes, Franchise Business Consultants coach and influence Franchise organizations to deliver a consistent, safe, and compelling brand experience; accelerate same-store sales growth; and, where applicable, build the organizational capabilities required to support sustainable multiunit expansion. Responsibilities:

• Own and deliver operational and business performance results for an assigned portfolio of Franchisees, aligned to annual performance goals determined by franchise operations leadership.
• Lead the Annual Planning and Franchise Business Review (FBR) process, assessing performance against prior goals and commitments and aligning on forward-looking priorities. Partner with Franchisees to establish clear, actionable plans to drive sales, profitability, unit growth, and a safe, consistent brand experience; provide ongoing coaching through regular check-ins to ensure execution and follow-through.
• Leverage data, analytics, and performance insights to guide Franchisee decision-making. Interpret trends, identify opportunities and risks, recommend priorities, and monitor progress against commitments and plans.
• Support Franchisees through remodels and new restaurant development by ensuring understanding of required processes and standards. Partner with Construction and internal stakeholders to track milestones, hold Franchisees accountable, and support operational readiness for remodels and new store openings.
• Serve as the primary point of coordination between Franchisees and cross-functional partners, aligning resources to support brand standards, same-store sales growth, and readiness for unit expansion.
• Partner with Field Marketing, as needed, to support operational initiatives and marketing rollouts; monitor and reinforce effective execution of local, DMA, and regional marketing plans.
• Conduct restaurant evaluations as needed based on the Franchise Business Review process, performance indicators, or identified risks.
• Collaborate with the Field Training team to assess needs and coordinate training support that strengthens operational capability and performance.
• Manage G&A expenses responsibly and within parameters established by Regional leadership.
• Complete all required administrative, reporting, and compliance responsibilities accurately and on time.
• Actively contribute to a culture of inclusion by valuing diverse perspectives, promoting equity, and creating an environment where all individuals feel respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.
• Demonstrate adaptability in a dynamic environment by stepping in where needed, even outside of core responsibilities, to ensure overall success.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Proven ability to build credibility and trusted relationships with Franchisees, cross-functional partners, and external stakeholders.
• Results-oriented, with the ability to develop, execute, and adjust plans to achieve business objectives.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Highly organized and self-directed, with the ability to manage time, prioritize work, and operate effectively with minimal supervision.
• Data-literate, using insights and analytics to inform decisions, set priorities, and measure progress.
• Effective collaborator and problem-solver who brings people together to address challenges and drive alignment.
• Adaptable and resourceful, able to navigate change, diverse situations, and varied personalities with confidence.
• Curious and growth-minded, with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
• Strong understanding of restaurant operations, supported by solid business and financial acumen.
• Skilled in consultative partnership and strategic coaching.
• Demonstrates a compliance mindset while maintaining a big-picture, innovative, and creative approach.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Hospitality, Operations, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of experience in restaurant operations, franchise operations, field leadership, or a related multi-unit environment.
• Demonstrated success partnering with Franchisees or operators to improve sales, profitability, and operational performance.
• Strong working knowledge of restaurant operations, food safety, and brand standards.
• Proven ability to analyze performance data and translate insights into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Experience leading planning, goal-setting, and performance review processes.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence without direct authority.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities independently in a fast-paced, field-based environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly within an assigned territory.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree (MBA or related).
• Background working with both traditional and non-traditional restaurant formats.
• Strong understanding of rural, suburban, and small-market development strategies.
• Experience guiding Franchisees through remodels, new restaurant openings, or market expansion initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to partner cross-functionally with Marketing, Training, Construction, Real Estate, and Finance teams.
• Experience supporting underperforming locations, closure mitigation, or turnaround situations.
• Background in consultative coaching, change management, or leadership development.
• Knowledge of franchise regulatory requirements and brand compliance standards.

The pay range for this position is $90,000 - $110,000 annually, inclusive of potential annual bonus.