Director of Franchise Operations – EMEA

About BNI®:

Established in 1985, BNI is the world’s largest business referral network. With over 335,000 small-to medium-size business Members in over 11,000 Chapters across 77 Countries. We are a global company with local footprints. Our proven approach provides Members with a structured, positive, and professional referral program that enables them to sharpen their business skills, develop meaningful, long-term relationships, and experience business growth.

Who We’re Looking For:

The Director of Franchise Operations – EMEA will play a critical role in driving operational efficiency, standardization, and overall performance for the Franchise network across Europe. Reporting directly to the President of Franchise Operations, the Director will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, supporting Franchisees, and implementing company strategies within the region. This leader will ensure alignment with global policies, facilitate best practices, and drive the continuous improvement of operational systems and processes.

This Role Entails the Following:

• Lead the execution of the company’s operational strategies across EMEA, in line with global goals and objectives.
• Collaborate closely with senior leadership teams in the region to ensure alignment with corporate strategies, growth targets, and market-specific requirements.
• Develop and implement operational plans to improve Franchisee performance and ensure operational consistency and excellence across all markets in the region.
• Provide hands-on support to Franchisees, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and knowledge necessary to succeed.
• Foster strong relationships with Franchise partners, serving as a trusted advisor and operational leader.
• Drive Franchisee engagement, satisfaction, and retention through consistent communication and proactive problem-solving.
• Monitor and analyze operational metrics to ensure Franchisees adhere to company standards and policies.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and lead initiatives for continuous improvement in the region.
• Oversee the implementation of global initiatives and best practices, ensuring successful adaptation to regional nuances.
• Collaborate with the finance team to monitor and improve financial performance within the region.
• Develop and manage regional budgets, ensuring alignment with corporate financial objectives.
• Implement cost-saving strategies and optimize resource allocation across Franchise locations.
• Ensure Franchisees receive ongoing training and development to stay up-to-date with industry trends, company offerings, and operational best practices.
• Lead the development and delivery of training programs, resources, and tools for Franchise owners and staff.
• Support leadership development within the region, identifying potential leaders and providing career development opportunities.

• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and Franchise-specific requirements in each country and territory within the region.
• Work closely with the legal and risk management teams to identify, mitigate, and manage operational risks.
• Oversee the implementation of safety protocols and operational standards to ensure the safety and wellbeing of employees and customers.
• Regularly report to the President, Franchise Operations on the performance of Franchise locations in the EMEA region.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure Franchisee success, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Provide actionable insights to senior leadership based on regional performance data.

Minimum Experience & Education:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in Franchise operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing multiple countries/regions.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and growing Franchise operations in the EMEA region.
• Experience in managing cross-functional teams and driving regional performance.
• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with Franchisees and stakeholders.
• Ability to lead by example, motivate, and inspire teams.
• Strong business acumen with a focus on profitability and operational efficiency.
• High level of organizational and project management skills.
• Fluency in English required; proficiency in additional European or Middle Eastern languages is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, Operations Management, or related field (MBA preferred).
• This role requires regular travel within the EMEA region to visit Franchisees and operational sites.

Background check and references are required. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

BNI’s wonderful culture based on Givers Gain® is lived out every day by our team and over 335,000 Members globally. Learn more at www.bni.com.

An equal opportunity employer.

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