Home Office Careers at First Watch

The Regional Talent Director will serve as a key business partner and lead the talent management lifecycle in a designated operations division, focused on developing a management pipeline strategy. This includes developing an internal talent bench, as well as attracting external talent.  The Regional Talent Director will be a strategic business partner to the VP and RVPs in a division, providing HR expertise to hire the best talent, support a diverse, inclusive work environment and deliver a robust talent pipeline to drive a high-growth, high-performing business model. This position will support the Southeast market consisting of restaurants within Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, & Northeast Florida. The Regional Talent Director lives within the market.

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  The percent of time spent on each of the responsibilities below will vary based on the talent strengths and opportunities within each respective division.

Talent Acquisition

• Partner with Operation leaders to meet the company’s high-growth staffing goals and enable a high-performing, inclusive culture. Analyze, develop, and implement creative talent acquisition strategies.
• Lead and facilitate the management interview and selection process with applicants and RVPs/DOs to ensure proactive staffing levels are met through on-time talent acquisition leveraging a balance of internal and external candidates.
• Conduct initial virtual face-to-face interviews via video conferencing.
• Conduct weekly meetings with RVPs and Directors within the respective division to assess current management development and recruiting needs; partner with VP on overall strategy.
• Monitor, maintain and assess management rosters with Operations Leadership for succession planning to identify current & future talent acquisition opportunities.
• Accurately execute all hiring system responsibilities, resume screening, applicant tracking, background checks, candidate communications and new hire administration. Ensures process compliance to minimize company risk and liability.
• Manage company career sites and Internet job boards, engage in relevant social media / networking strategies to promote an employer-of-choice branding campaign, recruiting agency management, actively promote manager referral programs and utilize other effective recruiting strategies.
• Establish and advance positive First Watch image with students/faculty at targeted universities with a hospitality program within Division, attend career fairs, conduct live and virtual classroom presentations and live/video student interviews.
• Develop and implement diversity recruiting strategies to source diverse talent.
• Develop strong relationships with and deliver professional talent acquisition services to operations clients.
• Deliver a positive applicant/candidate experience to promote First Watch/You First brand image & reputation.
• Convey subject matter knowledge on TA related topics to market leaders (e.g. compensation/benefits, relocation etc.).

Talent Identification and Retention

• Serve as a strategic partner to the VP, RVPs and DOs, focused on talent planning.
• Conduct monthly meetings with all Directors and RVPs within respective division to assess current talent. (development needs, flight risks, etc.); provide monthly summary recap to VP.
• Aid in identifying talent gaps and offering effective solutions that support business objectives (partnering with Training resources). Recommend training enhancements to continuously improve materials and delivery.
• Support the Talent Review process within respective division; ensure talent assessments within Division are completed in a thorough and timely manner and utilize information to drive targeted training/development and succession planning support.
• Ensure clear, thoughtful and current succession planning is in place to keep division pipeline strong.
• Analyze and understand the turnover trends within a division and partner with appropriate Operations leadership to identify the root cause and address retention issues.
• Assist with the selection and development of NRO trainers in respective division to ensure a talented, diverse pool of trainers is available to support varying NRO needs.
• Support and monitor the internal promotion process within a division.
• Maintain communication with new managers in training through training to ensure expectations are being met.
• Provide additional HR support as needed with key market activity.

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Education. Human Resources or a related field required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Recruiting or HRBP role.
• Multi-unit restaurant, retail or hospitality experience preferred.
• Deep knowledge of recruiting practices, principles and methods, including interviewing and assessment skills.
• Talent advisor behaviors/competencies, supported by a solid understanding of the business, external / internal labor market, competitive landscape, and data analytics.
• Business partner mindset with the experience, credibility and confidence necessary to work with and influence market leaders, HR colleagues, and employees at all levels to deliver results. 

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO’s primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relations
• Trains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluations
• Follows up on training of MIT's/CAFE’s and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress
• Ensures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programs
• Through effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First Watch
• Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
• Takes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
• Develops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expenses
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operations
• Proven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teams
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team success
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned market

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO’s primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relations
• Trains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluations
• Follows up on training of MIT's/CAFE’s and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress
• Ensures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programs
• Through effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First Watch
• Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
• Takes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
• Develops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expenses
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operations
• Proven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teams
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team success
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned market

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO’s primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relations
• Trains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluations
• Follows up on training of MIT's/CAFE’s and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress
• Ensures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programs
• Through effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First Watch
• Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
• Takes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
• Develops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expenses
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operations
• Proven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teams
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team success
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned market

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Accounting Manager is a key financial professional responsible for ensuring compliance with accounting standards, implementing accounting policies, and providing technical support on accounting issues to staff. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, auditors and accounting team members to maintain accurate and timely financial reporting and internal controls.

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities. Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

Technical Accounting Expertise

• Stay abreast of evolving accounting standards (e.g., GAAP) and assess their impact on the organization
• Research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements or changes in regulations (SEC)
• Provide guidance on accounting issues, collaborate with other departments to address challenges and document memos on technical / complex accounting issues / transactions (may include debt transactions, impairment analysis, cash flow hedge accounting, etc.)
• Train and support accounting staff on GAAP accounting issues
• Prepare/review journal entries, internal schedules, account reconciliations, accounting procedures, process memos

Financial Reporting

• Preparation/review of schedules supporting the financial statements in compliance with applicable accounting standards
• Preparation/review of financial statement disclosures to ensure compliance with US GAAP

Policy Development and Implementation

• Develop and implement accounting policies
• Work with various departments to communicate and educate teams on accounting policies and procedures
• Ensure staff on the accounting team are aware of accounting policy updates for compliance
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of existing policies and recommend updates as needed

Internal Controls

• Establish and maintain a strong system of internal controls
• Collaborate with internal audit to identify and address control deficiencies
• Implement best practices to enhance the effectiveness of internal controls

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, treasury, operations, purchasing, etc. to address accounting-related matters
• Communicate complex accounting issues in a clear and concise manner
• Work closely with, train and develop accounting team members

Advisory Role

• Provide guidance on transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and other business initiatives to ensure compliance with accounting standards
• Evaluate the financial impact of proposed transactions and provide recommendations

• Strong knowledge of GAAP
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting
• CPA preferred
• Public company experience preferred
• Extensive experience (typically 5-7 years) in accounting roles, with demonstrated progression
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO’s primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relations
• Trains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluations
• Follows up on training of MIT's/CAFE’s and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress
• Ensures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programs
• Through effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First Watch
• Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
• Takes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
• Develops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expenses
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operations
• Proven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teams
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team success
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned market

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO’s primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relations
• Trains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluations
• Follows up on training of MIT's/CAFE’s and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress
• Ensures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programs
• Through effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First Watch
• Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
• Takes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
• Develops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expenses
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operations
• Proven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teams
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team success
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned market

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO’s primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relations
• Trains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluations
• Follows up on training of MIT's/CAFE’s and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress
• Ensures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programs
• Through effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First Watch
• Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
• Takes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
• Develops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expenses
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operations
• Proven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teams
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team success
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned market

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

This individual will be responsible for tasks relative to leasing, real estate lease administration, reconciliation and property management of First Watch restaurants. This role will have heavy interaction with Landlords and partner with various First Watch Teams (Development Management, Real Estate, Facilities, Construction etc.).

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

• Proficient understanding of leases, lease compliance or other governing documents.
• Oversee the management of 150 restaurant locations within First Watch’s portfolio of over 575+ locations. Responsibilities include but are not limited to lease negotiations, resolving property management issues; reviewing and reconciling monthly and year-end expenses; abstracting lease documents into leasing software; and billing Tenant Improvement Allowance.
• Develop and lead the negotiation strategy for approved sites. Work closely with legal counsel on the incorporation of all commercial terms into the lease and support the negotiation of legal terms within the lease. Collaborate and review materials with Real Estate, Design and Construction, and Legal team to identify and resolve potential concerns. Track needed due diligence materials referenced in the LOI and Lease.
• Review invoices and process escrow changes. (Rent, Operating Expenses, Utilities, etc). Ensure all charges are allowable per the lease, request and review backup documentation to reconcile accounts, resolve any discrepancies and negotiate for maximum cost savings while also maintaining a positive Landlord-Tenant relationship.
• Perform Annual Desktop Audit of Operating Expenses: Analyze the year-end reconciliation statement to ensure charges are billed in accordance with the lease.
• Property Management: Effectively communicate between internal terms and Landlord to reach a resolution.
• Process Estoppels, SNDA’s and Change of Ownership requests. Obtain pertinent supporting documents necessary. Process New Vendor Set-Up forms for New Restaurants and Landlord entity changes. Liaison between Landlord and accounting to obtain and verify required documentation. (W-9, ACH, Landlord Contact Form).
• Manage requests for Certificates of Insurance. Liaison between Landlord and Insurance Service Provider to rectify any discrepancies
• Bill for Tenant Improvement Allowance: prepare invoice and collect all required documentation. Track and monitor deadlines.
• Monitor the centralized email box and mail for the Asset Management team: Code and distribute emails and mail to appropriate. people. Respond to general inquiries. Prepare outgoing mail and overnight packages.Maintain physical lease files and monitor retention policy.
• Maintain electronic filing system (Dropbox) and leasing software (CoStar) with pertinent lease documents: Coordinate and circulate time-sensitive documents for signature.

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field is preferred or equivalent education and experience
• Five years of experience in Lease Administration/Asset Management
• Knowledge of lease administration databases desired (CoStar)
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, Smartsheets, Dropbox.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas and suggestions clearly and effectively
• Organizational Skills: ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments while delivering consistent, quality work
• Good analytical mind, strong financial acumen, ability to analyze and interpret complex lease clauses

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact in our communities – raising more than $1.7 million to date. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards and was also named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute, after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 600 restaurants in 31 states. For more information, visitwww.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.