Accelerated Leadership Training Program

Accelerated Leadership Training Program

The Chick-fil-A Accelerated Leadership Training Program is an intensive, full-time, hands-on career pathway designed to prepare high-potential internal candidates for a future in franchise ownership, corporate leadership, or executive-level managementboth within and beyond Chick-fil-A.

This two-year program is built on operational mastery, people leadership, and business acumen. Candidates will progress through each critical level of the businessbeginning as a team member and advancing through trainer, area manager, support director and operations director. Advancement is based on individual performance, comprehension, and leadership abilitynot time alone.

What You'll Gain

• Operational mastery in every aspect of restaurant performance
• Deep understanding of leadership principles in a high-performing team
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced Directors and the Operator
• Business exposure including financials, labor, P&L, food safety, HR, and marketing
• Leadership experience through managing teams, solving real-time challenges, and driving results
• Development toward potential Chick-fil-A franchise ownership or corporate opportunities

Key Responsibilities

You'll begin as a Team Member and work your way up through structured levels:

1. Team Member ? Trainer

• Master Front of House and Kitchen operations with excellence
• Demonstrate urgency, teamwork, accuracy, and hospitality
• Train new hires with clarity, positivity, and consistency
• Exemplify Chick-fil-A brand standards in every guest interaction

2. Area Manager

• Lead shifts and designated store areas (FOH or BOH)
• Solve real-time problems while maintaining quality and speed
• Develop team members and provide on-the-spot coaching
• Begin learning labor efficiency, inventory systems, and food safety

3. Support Director

• Proficiency in Restaurant Marketing, Training Development, or HR Roles
• Oversee operations of an entire dayshift for all areas (Drive-Thru, Kitchen, etc.)
• Set daily goals, challenge & hold Area Managers accountable
• Identify team development needs and mentor trainers
• Lead with humility, clarity, and precision under pressure

4. Operations Director

• Collaborate with Executive Team and Operator on strategic planning
• Oversee daily functions of the store and leadership teams
• Own business results: labor, productivity, guest satisfaction, safety
• Facilitate leadership meetings, hiring decisions, and culture building
• Present strategies and development plans to fellow Directors/Operator for maximum growth

Who We're Looking For

This program is designed for elite candidates who are deeply committed to growth and thrive in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.

Ideal Candidates Are:

• Highly Motivated: You set your own bar and push to exceed it.
• Self-Starters: You take initiative and learn independently.
• Strong Communicators: Clear, respectful, and consistent in all communication.
• Teachers at Heart: You're a natural coach who lifts others up.
• Physically & Mentally Tough: Long days, fast pace, and minimal downtime don't scare you.
• Adaptable & Resilient: You thrive in ever-changing environments.
• Team-Oriented: Humble, hungry, and smart about people.

Qualifications

• No college degree required
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must be eligible to work full-time (40+ hrs/week), including early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays with no limitations - a set schedule each week is not guaranteed
• 2-year commitment minimum (program timeline is flexible based on progress)
• Able to lift 40+ lbs and work in physically demanding conditions (heat, cold, standing for long hours)
• Reliable transportation and consistent punctuality

Environment & Expectations

• Fast-paced and high-pressure restaurant environment
• Physically demanding, requiring stamina and endurance
• Regular exposure to outdoor elements (heat, cold, rain)
• Mentorship-driven culture focused on growth and accountability
• Flexible and frequently changing responsibilities

Future Opportunities Upon Completion

• Chick-fil-A Operator (Franchise Owner) Candidate
• Chick-fil-A Corporate Staff Candidate
• Director-Level Leadership in High-Volume Store
• Launchpad to entrepreneurial, nonprofit, or executive-level careers

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a 1-page letter of intent to lauren@cfahmd.com, outlining:

• Why you want to join this program
• What leadership means to you
• What you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years

This program is not for everyone. It will challenge you physically, mentally, and emotionally. But for those called to lead with purpose and perseverance, it will change your lifeand the lives of those you lead!