Manager, Equipment Innovation

The manager supports the identification, evaluation, approval and integration steps associated with the deployment of kitchen layouts, equipment systems, and service processes that will positively impact restaurant operations. The role will plan, lead, and coordinate all validation efforts of corporate initiatives associated with field deployment and testing of systems design and innovation. An individual must conduct follow up work in the restaurants targeted to uncover issues, refine processes, and surface new operations-based methods that may lead to improved efficiencies and kitchen ergonomics. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in capacity analysis and industry best practices in food service equipment and operational process. Project Management & Reporting: Tracks budget and analyzes key performance indicators; Provide holistic perspective on impact of innovation programs; Follow, develop and apply the Inspire Brands approved testing process and procedures; Builds business cases for to support corporate initiatives; Pre & Post evaluation of prototypical models as applied to New Restaurant Openings (NRO) and Remodel efforts; Support work involving Food Safety teams to assure the design, process, and equipment specified meets all regulatory and HACCP requirements, as well as to address any new or modified codes that have impact on the system. Collaboration with Brand and Internal Corporate Partners: Liaises with Ops leaders on project targets and success criteria; Builds and maintains partnerships across the organization specific to Business Analytics, Inspire Development, Supply Chain and Finance. Collaboration with External Partners: Works with manufacturers to develop functional specifications; Partners with franchisees for data collection and surveys; Coordinates tests and procedures with outside consultants. Communication & Presentation: Communicates work and project documentation effectively to internal partners, leadership and franchise networks; Hosts / Supports meetings involving internal and external leadership partners; Assists in preparing scope of work & executive summaries; Supports innovation program awareness through demonstrations, brand conventions and corporate events. Good Citizenship: Represents Inspire Brands in a professional manner; Aligns and operates within the constructs of the organization; Promotes the five pillars of our brand tenets. Inspire is a multi-brand restaurant company whose portfolio includes more than 33,000 Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s, and SONIC restaurants worldwide. We’re made up of some of the world’s most iconic restaurant brands, but we’re much more than just a restaurant company. We’re a team of hundreds of thousands who individually and collectively are changing the way people eat, drink, and gather around the table. We know that food is much more than a staple—it’s an experience. At Inspire, that’s our purpose: to ignite and nourish flavorful experiences.