Let's dive into the fascinating world of a Chipotle COO and explore the intricacies of their daily routine. This is a story of leadership, consistency, and the human touch that makes a difference in the fast-paced restaurant industry.
A Day in the Life of a Chipotle COO
Jason Kidd, the Chief Operating Officer at Chipotle, shares an intriguing glimpse into his weekly routine, which involves visiting a dozen stores across different markets. This role is not just about overseeing operations; it's about connecting with people and ensuring a consistent, high-quality experience for customers.
The Travel Routine
Kidd's travel schedule is a testament to his dedication. He's on the road two to three days a week, visiting multiple stores in each market. The consistency of these visits is intentional, ensuring that leaders stay connected to the front lines and the day-to-day operations.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the balance Kidd strikes between planned and surprise visits. About three-quarters of his visits are pre-announced, giving store leadership a heads-up. But the remaining quarter is a surprise, allowing Kidd to observe the team's performance in real-time, without any preparation.
Morning Rituals and Sales Reports
Kidd's day starts early, with a workout routine that keeps him active and healthy. He listens to news podcasts during his workout, staying informed about current affairs. This is followed by a light breakfast, as he knows he'll be tasting Chipotle's food throughout the day.
One of the first tasks on his agenda is reviewing the sales report from the previous day. This gives him a snapshot of trends and performance, guiding his attention and priorities for the day ahead.
Store Visits and Interactions
Kidd aims to arrive at the first restaurant before 9 a.m., catching the team during their prep work. He stays until opening, observing the team's preparation and ensuring the foundation for a great day is laid.
During these visits, Kidd focuses on two key aspects: food and people. He tastes the food, observes preparation, and spends time with the team, ensuring they're engaged and passionate about their work. Chipotle's commitment to fresh, hand-prepared food is evident in every store, and Kidd's role is to uphold these standards.
Promoting Internal Talent
Kidd's visits also serve as an opportunity to identify internal talent. Last year, Chipotle promoted 23,000 people, and these store visits are a chance to observe and interact with potential future leaders. He pays attention to how people show up, their attitude, and their reaction to challenges, all of which are indicators of their potential.
Lunch and Customer Interactions
After opening, Kidd moves to the next restaurant for lunch. His go-to order is a customized bowl, and he stands in line with guests, interacting with them and buying lunch for those around him. He asks about their Chipotle experiences, their favorite orders, and what Chipotle could do better.
Consistency Checks and Market Understanding
In the afternoon, Kidd visits another location, conducting a consistency check. He asks about food preparation, KPIs, and what the team needs help with. He's also responsible for development and real estate, so he uses this time to visit potential new sites and understand the market dynamics.
Connecting with the Team and Family
In the late afternoon, Kidd connects with his direct reports and peers, recapping the day and determining any immediate actions. He also makes time for his family, calling his wife and trying to reach his college-aged kids. Family is incredibly important to him, and he strives to stay connected, even when on the road.
Dinner and Recharging
If Kidd is traveling, he often has dinner with the regional team, getting to know them better and understanding their aspirations. He's an avid sports fan, so he tries to catch the end of a game before heading to bed. Exercise and time with friends are also crucial for his recharge.
Final Thoughts
Kidd's daily routine is a testament to the importance of leadership in the restaurant industry. It's not just about overseeing operations; it's about connecting with people, ensuring consistency, and promoting a culture of excellence. His dedication to his role and his team is inspiring, and it's clear that his passion for people and food drives his success.
In my opinion, this insight into Kidd's daily life highlights the human element that often gets overlooked in the fast-paced world of business. It's a reminder that behind every successful organization are dedicated leaders who care deeply about their teams and their customers.
