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General Manager

Knoxville, TN, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Day Shifts
Weekend Shifts
Night Shifts
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee Discounts
Training and development programs
flexible scheduling

Job Description

KFC Corporation is a globally recognized leader in the quick-service restaurant industry, famed for its iconic fried chicken and strong brand presence across numerous countries. Established over 70 years ago, KFC continues to serve millions of customers daily by delivering quality food and memorable dining experiences. Operating through both corporate-owned and franchised locations, KFC emphasizes community involvement, innovation, and ongoing improvement to maintain its market leadership and meet evolving consumer preferences. The 5266 Millertown Pike location in Knoxville, Tennessee, is currently seeking a dedicated and experienced Restaurant General Manager to join their team and drive operational excellence.

This position, located in Knoxville, TN, falls under the General Manager career area within the Operations department and reports directly to the District Manager. As a full-time, exempt role, the Restaurant General Manager will be responsible for directing the daily operations of the Tasty Chick'n restaurant within the KFC family of brands. This dynamic leadership position demands a strategic focus on aligning the restaurant's activities with the brand vision and mission while exemplifying KFC's core guiding values.

The General Manager's role is broad and impactful, overseeing crucial elements such as product preparation, delivery, superior customer service, facilities management, and financial oversight. Success in this position is measured not only by sales and profitability but also by the ability to build, nurture, and sustain a high-performing team. The General Manager will actively recruit, select, train, and coach A+ talent to promote outstanding results across people management, customer satisfaction, sales growth, and profit margins.

Key responsibilities include fostering a positive work environment through effective communication and an open-door policy, ensuring compliance with food safety and operational standards, and maintaining a guest-first approach. The role also involves close collaboration with various teams to develop local marketing initiatives, manage inventory, and optimize overall restaurant performance. The General Manager is expected to demonstrate financial acumen by controlling costs, managing budgets, and identifying areas for improvement without compromising quality or service.

Educationally, candidates are required to have a college degree or equivalent work experience. A ServSafe certification is mandatory, with additional certifications in food safety, customer service, or leadership highly desirable. The ideal applicant will bring at least four years of experience in restaurant operations or a related field in a supervisory or management capacity, coupled with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, POS systems, and restaurant management software.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership qualities by inspiring and motivating teams, driving change initiatives, and fostering a culture of recognition and high performance. Skills in communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and financial management are critical to effectively meet and exceed the demands of this fast-paced role. Flexibility in work schedule, including availability on nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as willingness to travel for meetings and training, is required.

By joining KFC as a Restaurant General Manager in Knoxville, Tennessee, you will be part of a respected global brand committed to excellence, innovation, and employee development. This position offers an excellent opportunity to advance your career in restaurant management while making a significant impact on the success of a well-established and beloved food service organization.

Job Requirements

  • College degree or equivalent relevant work experience
  • ServSafe Certification
  • minimum of four years experience in restaurant operations or related field with supervisory or management role
  • proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • ability to work a flexible schedule including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • willingness to travel to other locations for meetings, training, or support
  • strong leadership and supervisory skills
  • effective verbal and written communication
  • knowledge of restaurant financials and inventory management
  • ability to foster a positive work environment
  • commitment to ethical leadership and integrity

Job Qualifications

  • College degree or equivalent relevant work experience
  • ServSafe Certification
  • additional certifications in food safety, customer service, or leadership training
  • minimum of four years experience in restaurant operations or related field with supervisory or management role
  • proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • experience in training and developing employees
  • strong understanding of restaurant financials including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
  • prior experience with inventory management and supply chain operations
  • familiarity with point-of-sale systems and restaurant management software
  • commitment to continuous personal and professional development
  • participation in industry-related professional organizations
  • prior experience leading teams through change initiatives
  • proven ability to create a positive work environment that fosters teamwork, communication, and employee engagement

Job Duties

  • Demonstrate Tasty Chick'n's Guiding Values while cultivating high-performing employees by effectively selecting, training, retaining, and recognizing A+ talent using Tasty Chick'n tools and processes
  • identify and develop a pipeline of talent through effective succession planning tools and best practices
  • execute the Performance Management process consistently to set employees up for success and maintain accountability
  • reinforce and uphold the Open Door Policy, fostering a culture of trust and transparency among all employees
  • partner with the People Services Team to resolve employee relations issues and ensure legal compliance within the restaurant
  • conduct regular team meetings to communicate business updates, recognize achievements, and foster team collaboration
  • implement training programs that enhance employee skills and knowledge in customer service, food safety, and operational procedures
  • monitor employee performance and provide constructive feedback, encouraging professional development and career growth
  • develop and manage a schedule that ensures all operational periods are adequately covered
  • drive a customer-focused culture by serving as a role model in resolving complex customer issues and training employees to meet or exceed service standards
  • coach and hold team members accountable for core operational procedures using the OSM and Company systems to ensure excellence in service
  • ensure compliance with food safety standards through direct observation and follow-up on food safety audit results
  • gather and analyze customer feedback to identify areas for improvement in service and product offerings
  • foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all customers
  • collaborate with marketing teams to create promotional campaigns and special events
  • ensure restaurant-level plans and marketing initiatives are in place and actively implemented
  • analyze sales trends and customer preferences to optimize menu offerings and pricing strategies
  • utilize sales data to forecast revenue and set achievable sales targets
  • explore and implement upselling techniques and suggestive selling practices
  • continuously analyze sales, labor, inventory, and controllables to take corrective actions that meet or achieve margin and sales growth targets
  • conduct periodic business reviews with management teams to enhance their capability in identifying and executing strategies
  • ensure compliance with Federal, State, and Local regulations and standards
  • share best practices with the team and across the Area
  • review and manage budgets to ensure financial targets are met
  • collaborate with suppliers to negotiate contracts and manage inventory levels

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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