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 excellenceDemonstrate urgency, teamwork, accuracy, and hospitalityTrain new hires with clarity, positivity, and consistencyExemplify Chick-fil-A brand standards in every guest interaction2. Area Manager
Lead shifts and designated store areas (FOH or BOH)Solve real-time problems while maintaining quality and speedDevelop team members and provide on-the-spot coachingBegin learning labor efficiency, inventory systems, and food safety3. Support Director
Proficiency in Restaurant Marketing, Training Development, or HR RolesOversee operations of an entire dayshift for all areas (Drive-Thru, Kitchen, etc.)Set daily goals, challenge & hold Area Managers accountableIdentify team development needs and mentor trainersLead with humility, clarity, and precision under pressure4. Operations Director
Collaborate with Executive Team and Operator on strategic planningOversee daily functions of the store and leadership teamsOwn business results : labor, productivity, guest satisfaction, safetyFacilitate leadership meetings, hiring decisions, and culture buildingPresent strategies and development plans to fellow Directors / Operator for maximum growthWho 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 requiredMust be at least 18 years oldMust 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 guaranteed2-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 punctualityEnvironment & Expectations
Fast-paced and high-pressure restaurant environmentPhysically demanding, requiring stamina and enduranceRegular exposure to outdoor elements (heat, cold, rain)Mentorship-driven culture focused on growth and accountabilityFlexible and frequently changing responsibilitiesFuture Opportunities Upon Completion
Chick-fil-A Operator (Franchise Owner) CandidateChick-fil-A Corporate Staff CandidateDirector-Level Leadership in High-Volume StoreLaunchpad to entrepreneurial, nonprofit, or executive-level careersHow to Apply
Submit your resume and a 1-page letter of intent to lauren@cfahmd.com, outlining :
Why you want to join this programWhat leadership means to youWhat you hope to accomplish in the next 5 yearsThis 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!