What are the responsibilities and job description for the Franchise Business Consultant position at Kilwins Chocolates Franchise?
Company/Location: Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, Inc. – Remote
Reports to: Director of Franchise Store Support
FLSA Status: Salaried/Exempt
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 are not just words; they 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 over 160 franchisee-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. Driven by our core values and guided by a vision for the future, Kilwins has set ambitious goals, including plans to expand our franchise network to 400 stores within four years. This marks a new era of opportunity and innovation for Kilwins, as we continue to delight customers and communities across the nation with our unique sensory and taste experiences.
Join us at Kilwins and be part of a legacy built on excellence, hospitality, and the simple joy of making people happy. Together, let's create moments of sweetness and delight that last a lifetime.
“Sweet in Every Sense since 1947”®
Job Summary
The Franchise Relations Store Consultant (FRLC) holds the primary relationship between Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, Inc. (KCF) and the franchise community, with broad accountability to each. The Franchise Relations Store Consultant applies leadership, influence, and functional expertise to create meaningful, productive relationships with each assigned franchisee. This would include areas of the business, such as, but limited to sales, profits, operations, and products. As the brand ambassador, they should have the ability to operate a Kilwins store, encourage and support franchisee business plan development, goal setting, and operational review of their assigned stores to improve operations. This person must have a strong knowledge of the Kilwins system and model and possess excellent written and verbal documentation and communication skills. They will travel (60%-75% overnight travel) and must have the ability to manage multiple projects.
Essential Functions
- Personally represents Kilwins Core Values, Core Purpose, Core Operating Standards, and Brand Promise.
- Provide integrity, honesty and knowledge that promotes the culture, values, and purpose of Kilwins Brand.
- Through the development of meaningful relationships with each assigned store owner/operator, the FRSC will provide advice, counsel, coaching, and assistance to impact and improve the sales, profits, and operating standards of the business.
- Successful fulfillment of Kilwins Brand Standards within all stores.
- Provide leadership and goal setting for the stores with the ability to effectively measure results and ensure achievement of short and long-term goals of Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, Inc., and its shareholders.
- Develop, implement, and maintain healthy relationships with store teams.
- Effectively communicate and document franchisee performance such as:
- Assisting stores with day-to-day operational issues (non-HR related)
- Celebrate success and reward performance
- Setting store goals and measuring results
- Review Key Performance Indicators
- Perform regular impactful store visits to assess and assist with store operating standards and alignment with the “5-Star Wellness Consultation.” Brand Operating Standards include:
- Products – Products and Fixtures Furnishing and Equipment
- People – Customer Service
- Place – Store Environment
- Presentation – Merchandising
- Promotion – Marketing
- Financials
- Operational requirements such as on-time ordering, insurance requirements, etc.
- Work with, communicate with and support all business units cooperatively and effectively.
- Administers franchisee training, pre-opening and opening activities, store transfers and closures in conjunction with the Director of Learning and Development and Director of Franchise Store Support.
- Ensure store refresh or transfer requirements are completed prior to renewal or transfer.
- Track store operations and maintain performance dashboard
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Customer service oriented with a great personality and demeanor.
- Flexible schedule with the ability to work when needed, including holidays and weekends.
- Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines.
- Effectively manage conflict.
- Manage store operations independently.
- Knowledge of and ability to use all online and support systems.
- Organizational and planning skills.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Team-building skills.
- Leadership skills, with the ability to coach and mentor others.
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information.
- Knowledge of proper food handling and sanitation procedures.
- Ability to manage and follow Kilwins established documentation system.
- Must have exceptional written and verbal communication skills in the English language.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Must be able to travel to stores as needed to support franchisees
- Must be able to occasionally lift 50 pounds
- Must be able to stand for extended periods of time in a retail store or training environment
- Must be able to travel by aircraft, drive an automobile, and have a valid driver’s license
- Must reside near a major airport
Education and Experience
- Four-year college degree preferred
- Previous franchising experience preferred
- Proven track record of relevant accomplishments
- Proficient in Microsoft tools such as Outlook, Excel, and Word
EOE - Equal Opportunity Employer
This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship