Director of Operations
We are seeking a senior leader to oversee business performance across a network of franchise locations throughout Canada. This role combines franchise operations leadership with strategic marketing oversight, requiring a unique blend of operational excellence, relationship management, and customer growth expertise.
Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, this individual will drive operational performance, support franchisee success, lead market growth initiatives, and partner closely with marketing leadership to develop and execute regional marketing strategies. The role will lead a team of operations professionals while also influencing marketing resources and external partners to achieve business objectives.
This position is based in Toronto and requires regular travel throughout Canada, with occasional travel to the United States.
Responsibilities
- Franchise Operations Leadership
- Partner with executive leadership to develop and execute operational strategies that drive growth, profitability, and customer satisfaction across assigned markets.
- Support and develop strong relationships with franchise owners, acting as a trusted advisor and business partner.
- Lead operational initiatives related to new market development, franchise openings, ownership transitions, renewals, relocations, and expansion opportunities.
- Monitor business performance across assigned territories and implement action plans to improve operational results.
- Lead and support field operations teams to ensure consistent execution of company standards and best practices.
- Participate in budgeting and financial planning processes while managing regional operating budgets.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with training, finance, marketing, real estate, and other support functions to drive business results.
- Lead special projects and strategic initiatives designed to improve operational effectiveness and franchisee success.
- Resolve complex business challenges while balancing the needs of franchise owners and corporate objectives. Marketing Leadership
- Develop and execute annual regional marketing strategies designed to drive customer acquisition, retention, and market share growth.
- Partner with franchise owners and marketing stakeholders to align local marketing efforts with broader business objectives.
- Analyze marketing performance and customer trends to optimize investment decisions and improve return on marketing spend.
- Collaborate with agencies, media partners, and vendors to develop effective marketing programs.
- Identify, evaluate, and implement new marketing initiatives that increase brand awareness and customer traffic.
- Provide strategic recommendations regarding short- and long-term marketing opportunities across assigned markets.
- Manage multiple regional marketing programs simultaneously while ensuring strong financial accountability and measurable results.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Operations, or a related field preferred.
- 10+ years of leadership experience in franchise operations, multi-unit operations, or a comparable business model.
- Demonstrated experience supporting franchisees, licensees, dealers, or independently owned business operators.
- Minimum 3 years of people leadership experience.
- Minimum 3 years of marketing experience, either on the client side, agency side, or a combination of both.
- Strong understanding of franchise business models and the operational dynamics of multi-location organizations.
- Experience developing and executing marketing plans with measurable business outcomes.
- Knowledge of both traditional and digital marketing channels.
- Ability to influence without direct authority and build trust across a diverse group of business owners and internal partners.
- Strong problem-solving, strategic planning, and project management capabilities.
- Experience within retail, consumer services, hospitality, restaurant, fitness, or other franchise-based industries is highly preferred.
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ABOUT SKYWATER SEARCH
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Led by a group of seasoned search industry professionals, SkyWater Search Partners brings new focus to a novel concept, “Short List Search.” Our purpose is to leave a lasting impression on the clients we serve by providing individuals who will make a measurable difference in their business. We strive to consistently deliver great results to our clients in a very timely manner.
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