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Home Office Careers at First Watch

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First Watch Home Office Team

We are builders of our “You First” culture and exist to support our restaurants, our people and our company’s growth.

Employee Stories

Why First Watch? Reason #1

Flexible work environment

We offer intentional flexibility to allow for a healthy work/life balance.

Why First Watch? Reason #2

When we feel our best, we do our best.

That’s why we offer wellness rooms, standing desks, a mother’s room and gym in the home office.

Why First Watch? Reason #3

Free lunch Fridays

What can we say? We love food. Every Friday enjoy a free catered lunch.

Why First Watch? Reason #4

We love our pawject managers

We recognize dogs can reduce stress, encourage exercise, improve teamwork and boost morale.

Home Office Positions

Community Outreach Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

At First Watch, we believe in the power of relationships and supporting our local communities. For over four decades, First Watch has grown through word-of-mouth and organic discovery in communities across the country to become one of the most loved restaurant brands. Fueling that growth has been a strong connection to our communities and customers at each of our 600+ restaurants. As our Community Outreach Manager, you’ll build relationships, spark collaborations, work closely with our restaurants and operators, and amplify our presence in meaningful ways across more than 30 states. From grassroots community campaigns to nonprofit partnerships,you’ll help us show up where it matters most.

 

The ideal candidate for this role will have experience managing community partnerships and bringing ideas to life, as well as boast a mix of enthusiasm, creative thinking and “can do” attitude as a valued member of our collaborative and passionate team. This position must be fulfilled on-site at First Watch’s Home Office in Bradenton, Florida.

 


Responsibilities

  • Champion First Watch’s community presence by growing local partnerships and elevating our reputation through meaningful outreach.
  • Build and nurture relationships with nonprofits, local organizations, and community leaders who share our values.
  • Act as a brand ambassador, representing First Watch with authenticity, enthusiasm and a commitment to our mission.
  • Understand our markets by conducting research, visiting restaurants, and engaging with operators and local partners.
  • Manage and activate partnerships with existing nonprofit and community organizations, while identifying new opportunities.
  • Coordinate grand opening events/timelines and local partnerships in tandem with our New Restaurant Opening (NRO) and PR teams.
  • Plan and execute in-market events with restaurant teams –some events may require staffing and occasional weekend participation.
  • Collaborate across departments to ensure outreach efforts are aligned, integrated and impactful.
  • Support internal communications related to NROs, community initiatives and nonprofit partnerships.
  • Visit restaurants regularly to build connections, understand local dynamics and uncover opportunities for engagement.
  • Bring a collaborative, solution-oriented mindset to challenges and opportunities.
  • Communicate clearly and consistently with key stakeholders and cross-functional partners to align on plans and priorities.
  • Track and report on outreach success, including engagement metrics, community feedback and impact stories.
  • Co-manage budget associated with local marketing activities and charitable contributions, ensuring resources are used effectively.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree required (degree in communications/public relations/marketing or related field is preferred).
  • Minimum 3 of experience in community relations, communications/PR, nonprofits or local restaurant marketing. Restaurant/hospitality experience a plus.
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 20% of the time.

 


Who We Are

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, visit www.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.

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Director of Operations

Location: Charlotte

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

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.

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Director of Operations

Location: North Miami Beach

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

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.

Apply now for Director of Operations, opens in a new window

Director of Operations

Location: Franklin

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

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.

Apply now for Director of Operations, opens in a new window

Director of Operations

Location: Fort Worth

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

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.

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SOX IT Auditor

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The SOX IT Auditor is a crucial role in supporting the company’s compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX).  This position will assist the IT team and leadership in evaluating, testing, and documenting IT general controls (ITGC), including application controls (ITAC), over financial reporting. This position will involve strong collaboration between both internal and external auditors, as well as relevant lines of business. The SOX IT Compliance Analyst will ensure that the company’s IT controls remain effective and compliant with established internal procedures and standards. 

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Assist IT system owners in preparing and maintaining SOX IT process narratives and Risk and Control Matrices (RCMs)
  • Participate in system scoping reviews to understand how data flows through the systems that are material to internal controls over financial reporting
  • Enforce established timelines in performing SOX compliance tasks, ensuring activities are conducted in accordance with policies and procedures
  • Assist in designing and implementing IT General Controls for new systems
  • Collaborate with process and control owners to remediate identified deficiencies, advising on internal control enhancements or process changes as appropriate, and ensuring corrective actions are properly implemented
  • Effectively communicate IT SOX issues and requirements across varied levels of leadership and process owners to drive solutions
  • Conduct import/export reviews for acquiring systems and software
  • Evaluate changes in processes, people, and technology that may impact SOX controls for IT systems and processes
  • Serve as critical liaison with internal and external auditors, managing the ITGC testing evidence validation, and issue remediation with minimal oversight
  • Validate and assess audit evidence to ensure completeness, accuracy, and appropriate traceability to source systems
  • Support internal and external auditors in the gathering of pertinent documentation to support ITGC and ITAC audit requests
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams, including accounting, tax, treasury, payroll, and consultants, to provide IT SOX support
  • Provide training and guidance to IT staff on SOX compliance best practices

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Information Technology fields
  • Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in a related field (internal audit, IT Security, etc.)
  • Proven skill in conducting audits or reviews of technical systems
  • Proven skill in identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills; well-developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to challenge; ability to rapidly assimilate knowledge of processes and systems and develop relationships with stakeholders
  • Strong organizational and time management skills; ability to independently complete and manage multiple assignments with varying deadlines
  • Excellent attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to prepare and articulate objective, defensible, fact-based information
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

 


Who We Are

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.

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Director of Operations

Location: Bluffton

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

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.

Apply now for Director of Operations, opens in a new window

Asset Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

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.).

 


Responsibilities

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.

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

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.

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