Assistant Unit Manager

Lexington, KY, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

competitive pay

bonus eligible

Paid Time Off

free meal each shift

medical benefits

401K retirement plan with 4% match

Career advancement and professional development

tuition reimbursement and scholarship opportunities

KFC Foundation programs including free college tuition at WGU

$1 per $1 savings match program

Hardship assistance program

Job Description

KFC, a globally recognized fast-food restaurant chain, is well-known for its iconic fried chicken and exceptional customer service. As part of the world’s leading quick-service restaurant brands, KFC operates numerous outlets dedicated to delivering high-quality food and a memorable dining experience to its customers. The company prides itself on its strong brand values, including a commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging, which it integrates into all aspects of its culture and operations. KFC offers attractive employment opportunities that emphasize career development, work-life balance, and comprehensive benefits, making it an appealing employer in the restaurant industry.

We are currently seeking an Assistant Manager to join our dynamic team. This position is central to ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the restaurant while supporting the Restaurant General Manager (RGM) in maintaining brand standards and fostering a positive, motivated team environment. The Assistant Manager acts as a key leader within the restaurant, providing ongoing training, coaching, and recognition to team members to deliver exceptional customer experiences. This role also demands the ability to manage operational challenges effectively and to step up in the absence of the RGM, making important decisions and leading staff towards operational excellence.

This full-time position typically involves working a 50-hour week, with 40 hours compensated at the regular pay rate and 10 hours compensated at time and a half. This ensures that employees are fairly rewarded for their commitment and efforts. The Assistant Manager plays an essential role in driving profitability by assisting with profit and loss (P&L) management, cash control, inventory maintenance, and labor management. They are also responsible for supporting health and safety standards and facility maintenance, ensuring a safe and clean environment for employees and customers alike.

The role encourages a collaborative working environment where fun and personal growth go hand in hand. Candidates who thrive in fast-paced settings, enjoy leading by example, and are passionate about food service will find this position rewarding. The Assistant Manager will recruit and retain talented team members, promote KFC’s culture and values, and foster an atmosphere of equity and inclusion. This role requires strong communication skills, leadership capabilities, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Moreover, KFC provides extensive opportunities for career advancement, supported by professional development programs and tuition reimbursement benefits, including access to the KFC Foundation Programs such as free college tuition at Western Governors University and a savings match program. This is a unique chance to join a respected brand and grow professionally while enjoying competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.

Job Requirements

2+ years of restaurant or retail management experience
Assist with profit and loss management by following cash control and security procedures, maintaining inventory, managing labor, and reviewing financial reports
Ensure all employees receive proper training and resources
Champion KFC's culture and values promoting equity, inclusion and belonging
Lead efforts in individual and team recognition, collaboration and motivation
Identify and recruit exceptional talent supporting the RGM in hiring process
Possess strong communication skills for performance appraisals, disciplinary actions and employee motivation
Adhere to corporate policies, procedures and occupational health and food safety standards

Job Qualifications

2+ years of restaurant or retail management experience
Assist with profit and loss management by following cash control and security procedures, maintaining inventory, managing labor and reviewing financial reports
Ability to provide proper training and resources to employees
Champion KFC's culture and values promoting equity, inclusion and belonging
Strong communication skills for conducting performance appraisals, taking disciplinary action and motivating employees
Experience recruiting and hiring team members
Ability to lead team recognition, collaboration and motivation initiatives
Knowledge of corporate policies, procedures and occupational health and food safety standards

Job Duties

Ensure consistent customer satisfaction by effectively modeling the KFC Connect Success Routine and prioritizing customer needs
Oversee team members' adherence to shift responsibilities and maintain high food safety standards
Take charge of restaurant operations in the Restaurant General Manager's absence
Collaborate with the RGM in assessing team performance, providing ongoing constructive and positive feedback
Address employee relations issues, determine immediate resolutions, or escalate to the RGM when necessary
Assist in sourcing, recruiting, interviewing and hiring team members
Drive a culture of equity, inclusion and belonging
Assist with profit and loss management including cash control, security procedures, inventory maintenance and labor management
Review financial reports and take appropriate actions to optimize performance
Support the RGM in facility maintenance and ensure health and safety standards are consistently followed