Let's dive into the fascinating world of a Chipotle COO and uncover the secrets behind their daily grind. It's a journey that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the restaurant business and the people who make it tick.
The Dream Job: A COO's Perspective
Jason Kidd, the COO at Chipotle, shares his passion for the role. With a background in retail, he finds similarities between the two industries, emphasizing the importance of interaction and influence. For Kidd, being on the front line is the highlight, allowing him to see the business in action and make a real impact.
A Week in the Life
Kidd's week is a blend of travel and interaction. He's on the road for about three days, visiting a dozen stores in each market. These visits are a mix of planned and surprise inspections, ensuring a consistent experience for customers and a chance to identify internal talent.
Morning Routine: A Healthy Start
The day begins early for Kidd, with a pre-6 a.m. workout. He listens to the news and stays informed, setting the tone for the day. A light breakfast follows, as he knows he'll be tasting Chipotle's offerings throughout the day. But it's not just about the food; it's about connecting with the team and understanding their daily prep.
Restaurant Visits: A Deep Dive
Kidd's restaurant visits are an immersive experience. He arrives before 9 a.m. to catch the prep work, staying until opening. He observes the team, tastes the food, and ensures everything is consistent. It's a chance to identify areas for support and promote internal talent. He interacts with guests, buys them lunch, and gathers feedback.
A Bowl of Consistency
Kidd's go-to order is a testament to Chipotle's consistency. A bowl with brown rice, black beans, chicken, carnitas, and salsas is his daily delight. He stands in line with guests, a reminder that it's not just about the food but the entire experience.
Afternoon Drive: Real Estate and Development
In the afternoon, Kidd shifts gears to real estate and development. He travels with his team, scouting potential sites and getting a feel for the market. It's a long-term goal to expand Chipotle's reach, and understanding the market is key.
Evening Connections: Family and Team
As the day winds down, Kidd connects with his family and team. He calls his wife and tries to reach his college-aged kids, staying present even when on the road. He also has dinner with the regional team, getting to know them on a personal level and understanding their aspirations.
Recharging: Sports and Me-Time
Kidd's recharge routine is a mix of sports, exercise, and time with friends. He's an avid sports fan, and catching a game or reading about it helps him unwind. Exercise and travel are also key, giving him the energy to tackle each day.
The Bigger Picture
Kidd's daily routine is a testament to the importance of consistency, interaction, and talent identification. It's a reminder that the restaurant business is about more than just food; it's about the people who make it happen. From prep to promotion, every detail matters, and every interaction counts.
So, there you have it—a day in the life of a Chipotle COO. It's a fascinating glimpse into the world of fast-food leadership, where every day is a new challenge and every interaction is an opportunity.
