What are the responsibilities and job description for the Store Opening and Field Training Specialist position at Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, Inc.?
KILWINS CHOCOLATES FRANCHISE, INC.
Store Opening & Field Training Specialist
Nationwide (near major airport preferred; South Florida or Sarasota a plus) | Full-Time, Exempt
Pay Range: $75,000 – $90,000 Bonus Potential (10%)
Travel: 80–100% overnight travel required
Date Last Revised: May 2026
KILWINS HERITAGE
At Kilwins, our Core Purpose is simple yet profound: To create enjoyment and make people happy! Rooted in this purpose are our fundamental values: Treat others as you want to be treated, Do your best, and Have fun! These values form the bedrock of our culture, inspiring our team members to strive for excellence in providing an exceptional confectionery experience to every customer.
Since our humble beginnings in 1947, Kilwins has been synonymous with unparalleled quality and genuine hospitality. Over seven decades, we have grown from a single storefront to a renowned confectionery brand with more than 180 franchise-owned and locally operated stores nationwide. Our commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail shine through in every handcrafted treat we offer, from delectable chocolates and creamy fudge to irresistible caramel apples and our famous Original Recipe Ice Cream.
Kilwins was acquired by Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) in February 2023. With ambitious plans to expand our franchise network to 400 stores within four years, Kilwins is entering an exciting period of aggressive growth — and the Franchise Opening Specialist is central to that success.
“Sweet in Every Sense since 1947®”
Position Summary
The Franchise Opening Specialist is a newly created, first-in-role position that serves as a critical driver of Kilwins’ national expansion strategy. This hands-on, field-based role is responsible for leading new store openings from pre-opening preparation through post-launch stabilization — combining the practical production training expertise of a Training Specialist with the business acumen and franchise relationship skills of a Franchise Business Consultant (FBC).
When not actively managing store openings, the Franchise Opening Specialist serves as a key support resource for the FBC team, conducting remedial inspections and targeted training for struggling or newly transferred franchisees, supporting transfers and renewals, and serving as a flexible deployment resource as directed by the FBC team and Director of Franchise Operations.
This role requires a highly adaptable, self-directed professional who thrives in dynamic environments, can build trust quickly with franchise owners and their teams, and is equally comfortable in a production kitchen and a business coaching conversation.
Key Responsibilities
New Store Openings
Lead all pre-opening and on-site opening activities for new Kilwins franchise locations nationwide, ensuring operational readiness and alignment with brand standards.
Conduct hands-on production training for hot production processes including fudge, caramel corn, brittle, and other specialty products.
Train incoming franchisees and their teams on Kilwins’ Core Operating Standards, customer service expectations, food safety protocols, and Brand Promise.
Coordinate closely with the FBC team, Training & Learning Development, and Store Support to ensure a seamless opening experience for every new franchisee.
Manage logistics related to store openings, including scheduling, resource documentation, and communication with internal stakeholders.
Provide post-opening stabilization support, ensuring the franchisee is equipped for independent operation before transitioning ongoing support to their assigned FBC.
FBC Team Support & Remedial Training
Serve as an on-call and scheduled field resource for the FBC team, conducting additional or remedial inspections and training at the direction of the assigned FBC and Director of Franchise Operations.
Support struggling franchisees or newly transitioned locations with targeted operational coaching and hands-on training.
Evaluate store performance through the 5-Star Wellness Consultation framework: Products, People, Place, Presentation, Promotion, and Financials.
Document findings, develop action plans in coordination with the FBC, and track follow-through on improvement initiatives.
Maintain ongoing relationships with previously opened stores as a trusted resource and subject matter expert.
Dedicate approximately 20–25% of scheduled time to assisting in Company Stores, maintaining hands-on production proficiency and brand standards alignment.
Transfers, Renewals & Compliance
Support franchise transfers and renewals by providing operational assessments and retraining as needed to ensure brand standard compliance.
Assist with store closures and transitions as directed, ensuring proper documentation and a professional franchisee experience.
Promote accountability through timely follow-up on store-level standards and compliance requirements.
Team Coaching & People Development
Coach franchisee teams on Kilwins’ operational standards, customer service expectations, and production best practices.
Model Kilwins’ Core Values in every interaction, fostering a culture of excellence, positivity, and genuine hospitality.
Utilize adult learning principles to deliver training that is engaging, practical, and results oriented.
Administrative & Communication
Utilize Office 365 tools (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, Lists) for scheduling, documentation, reporting, and communication.
Maintain accurate records of store visits, training activities, and franchisee interactions within FranConnect or other designated systems.
Communicate field insights to internal teams, surfacing trends, operational gaps, and franchisee feedback to the Director of Franchise Operations and FBC team.
Required
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish trust and credibility quickly with diverse franchise owners and their teams.
Demonstrated ability to deliver hands-on production training in a confectionery, food service, or related environment.
Business acumen with an understanding of retail or food service operations, sales drivers, and franchisee KPIs.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; ability to convey complex information clearly to varied audiences.
Highly organized and self-directed, with the ability to manage multiple simultaneous opening projects and shifting priorities.
Comfort with independent work, extensive travel, and frequent change of environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word).
Valid driver’s license; ability to travel by air and car; must live near a major airport.
Food safety knowledge and commitment to sanitation standards.
Preferred
Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Food Science, or a related field.
Prior experience in franchise operations, multi-unit retail, or food service.
Hands-on experience with hot production processes (fudge, brittle, caramel corn) or comparable specialty food production.
Familiarity with adult learning theory and training facilitation best practices.
Experience with FranConnect, or comparable franchise management systems.
ServSafe certification, or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire.
Physical Requirements / Work Environment
Ability to stand for extended periods while conducting training sessions and store visits.
Fine motor skills including hand and wrist dexterity for production tasks such as assembling kitchen equipment and decorating confections.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
Must be able to travel by air and operate a vehicle to reach franchise locations across multiple states; 80–100% overnight travel required.
Must reside near a major airport; proximity to Kilwins’ South Florida corporate stores (Lauderdale-by-the-Sea or Sarasota area) preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
Kilwins is committed to attracting exceptional talent with a compensation package that reflects the scope, travel demands, and impact of this role.
Pay Range: $75,000 – $90,000 base salary, commensurate with experience
Bonus Potential: 10% annual bonus (prorated) based on individual and company performance
Additional benefits include:
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plan with company match
Paid time off and company holidays
Travel expense reimbursement per company policy
A mission-driven culture rooted in quality, hospitality, and genuine care for people
Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.
Store Opening & Field Training Specialist
Nationwide (near major airport preferred; South Florida or Sarasota a plus) | Full-Time, Exempt
Pay Range: $75,000 – $90,000 Bonus Potential (10%)
Travel: 80–100% overnight travel required
Date Last Revised: May 2026
KILWINS HERITAGE
At Kilwins, our Core Purpose is simple yet profound: To create enjoyment and make people happy! Rooted in this purpose are our fundamental values: Treat others as you want to be treated, Do your best, and Have fun! These values form the bedrock of our culture, inspiring our team members to strive for excellence in providing an exceptional confectionery experience to every customer.
Since our humble beginnings in 1947, Kilwins has been synonymous with unparalleled quality and genuine hospitality. Over seven decades, we have grown from a single storefront to a renowned confectionery brand with more than 180 franchise-owned and locally operated stores nationwide. Our commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail shine through in every handcrafted treat we offer, from delectable chocolates and creamy fudge to irresistible caramel apples and our famous Original Recipe Ice Cream.
Kilwins was acquired by Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) in February 2023. With ambitious plans to expand our franchise network to 400 stores within four years, Kilwins is entering an exciting period of aggressive growth — and the Franchise Opening Specialist is central to that success.
“Sweet in Every Sense since 1947®”
Position Summary
The Franchise Opening Specialist is a newly created, first-in-role position that serves as a critical driver of Kilwins’ national expansion strategy. This hands-on, field-based role is responsible for leading new store openings from pre-opening preparation through post-launch stabilization — combining the practical production training expertise of a Training Specialist with the business acumen and franchise relationship skills of a Franchise Business Consultant (FBC).
When not actively managing store openings, the Franchise Opening Specialist serves as a key support resource for the FBC team, conducting remedial inspections and targeted training for struggling or newly transferred franchisees, supporting transfers and renewals, and serving as a flexible deployment resource as directed by the FBC team and Director of Franchise Operations.
This role requires a highly adaptable, self-directed professional who thrives in dynamic environments, can build trust quickly with franchise owners and their teams, and is equally comfortable in a production kitchen and a business coaching conversation.
Key Responsibilities
New Store Openings
Lead all pre-opening and on-site opening activities for new Kilwins franchise locations nationwide, ensuring operational readiness and alignment with brand standards.
Conduct hands-on production training for hot production processes including fudge, caramel corn, brittle, and other specialty products.
Train incoming franchisees and their teams on Kilwins’ Core Operating Standards, customer service expectations, food safety protocols, and Brand Promise.
Coordinate closely with the FBC team, Training & Learning Development, and Store Support to ensure a seamless opening experience for every new franchisee.
Manage logistics related to store openings, including scheduling, resource documentation, and communication with internal stakeholders.
Provide post-opening stabilization support, ensuring the franchisee is equipped for independent operation before transitioning ongoing support to their assigned FBC.
FBC Team Support & Remedial Training
Serve as an on-call and scheduled field resource for the FBC team, conducting additional or remedial inspections and training at the direction of the assigned FBC and Director of Franchise Operations.
Support struggling franchisees or newly transitioned locations with targeted operational coaching and hands-on training.
Evaluate store performance through the 5-Star Wellness Consultation framework: Products, People, Place, Presentation, Promotion, and Financials.
Document findings, develop action plans in coordination with the FBC, and track follow-through on improvement initiatives.
Maintain ongoing relationships with previously opened stores as a trusted resource and subject matter expert.
Dedicate approximately 20–25% of scheduled time to assisting in Company Stores, maintaining hands-on production proficiency and brand standards alignment.
Transfers, Renewals & Compliance
Support franchise transfers and renewals by providing operational assessments and retraining as needed to ensure brand standard compliance.
Assist with store closures and transitions as directed, ensuring proper documentation and a professional franchisee experience.
Promote accountability through timely follow-up on store-level standards and compliance requirements.
Team Coaching & People Development
Coach franchisee teams on Kilwins’ operational standards, customer service expectations, and production best practices.
Model Kilwins’ Core Values in every interaction, fostering a culture of excellence, positivity, and genuine hospitality.
Utilize adult learning principles to deliver training that is engaging, practical, and results oriented.
Administrative & Communication
Utilize Office 365 tools (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, Lists) for scheduling, documentation, reporting, and communication.
Maintain accurate records of store visits, training activities, and franchisee interactions within FranConnect or other designated systems.
Communicate field insights to internal teams, surfacing trends, operational gaps, and franchisee feedback to the Director of Franchise Operations and FBC team.
Required
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish trust and credibility quickly with diverse franchise owners and their teams.
Demonstrated ability to deliver hands-on production training in a confectionery, food service, or related environment.
Business acumen with an understanding of retail or food service operations, sales drivers, and franchisee KPIs.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; ability to convey complex information clearly to varied audiences.
Highly organized and self-directed, with the ability to manage multiple simultaneous opening projects and shifting priorities.
Comfort with independent work, extensive travel, and frequent change of environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word).
Valid driver’s license; ability to travel by air and car; must live near a major airport.
Food safety knowledge and commitment to sanitation standards.
Preferred
Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Food Science, or a related field.
Prior experience in franchise operations, multi-unit retail, or food service.
Hands-on experience with hot production processes (fudge, brittle, caramel corn) or comparable specialty food production.
Familiarity with adult learning theory and training facilitation best practices.
Experience with FranConnect, or comparable franchise management systems.
ServSafe certification, or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire.
Physical Requirements / Work Environment
Ability to stand for extended periods while conducting training sessions and store visits.
Fine motor skills including hand and wrist dexterity for production tasks such as assembling kitchen equipment and decorating confections.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
Must be able to travel by air and operate a vehicle to reach franchise locations across multiple states; 80–100% overnight travel required.
Must reside near a major airport; proximity to Kilwins’ South Florida corporate stores (Lauderdale-by-the-Sea or Sarasota area) preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
Kilwins is committed to attracting exceptional talent with a compensation package that reflects the scope, travel demands, and impact of this role.
Pay Range: $75,000 – $90,000 base salary, commensurate with experience
Bonus Potential: 10% annual bonus (prorated) based on individual and company performance
Additional benefits include:
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plan with company match
Paid time off and company holidays
Travel expense reimbursement per company policy
A mission-driven culture rooted in quality, hospitality, and genuine care for people
Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.
Salary : $75,000 - $90,000