Steven Johann

Dynamic and results-driven Learning, Development, and Operations Leader with over 15 years of experience driving performance and guest satisfaction across major QSR and hospitality brands. Proven track record of bridging the gap between field operations and talent development by design, implementation, and management of large-scale training programs. Expert in instructional design, franchise performance coaching, and operational scalability, leveraging strong project management and procurement skills to maximize profitability and uphold rigorous brand standards.

Manager of Operations Services at KFC US / YUM! (2025-05 – Present)

• Led Ops Services team in executing high-impact product launches, driving measurable improvements in systemwide restaurant performance and operational efficiency.
• Championed compliance excellence by leading third-party audits and standardizing Digital Success Routines to ensure consistent operational standards.
• Collaborated cross-functionally to modernize and implement operational initiatives, strengthening the KFC brand and supporting sustainable long-term growth.

Senior Manager of Instructional Design at Burger King Corp / Restaurant Brands International (2020-03 – 2025-04)

• Developed and deployed 3 levels of leadership training to over 3,300 managers across US and Canada, enhancing managerial capabilities.
• Designed 6 "Gold Standard" activity-based seed trainings for multi-level managers, supporting operations across more than 6,400 restaurants.
• Implemented 14 virtual training courses using Action Mapping methodology, resulting in 92% learner satisfaction.
• Created, piloted, and launched new product training using the ADDIE model, achieving approximately 65% guest satisfaction.

Manager of Field Operations Training at Burger King Corp / Restaurant Brands International (2019-01 – 2020-03)

• Facilitated a 2-day in-person operations and profitability training for over 320 Regional General Managers across 7 states, achieving a 77% satisfaction rate.
• Produced and delivered a virtual training program on operating parameters during the pandemic shutdown, ensuring continuity of operational standards.

Manager of Franchise Performance at Burger King Corp / Restaurant Brands International (2014-11 – 2019-01)

• Collaborated with 22 franchisees across TX, OK, NM, and AR developing and executing operational improvement strategies.
• Ensured 165 restaurants rigorously adhered to food safety standards by auditing and implementing best practices.
• Conducted comprehensive P&L and Ops reviews with 12 key franchisees, driving profitability and operational efficiency.
• Earned MFP of the Year using analytical root-cause methods with actionable, easy-to-use improvement plans.

Manager of Platform Operations at Burger King Corp / Restaurant Brands International (2014-03 – 2014-11)

• Led project management to develop a standardized kitchen production system for the US, enhancing process consistency and efficiency.
• Designed a profitability training module that improved financial performance across the US, Canada, and Latin America.

Sales, Profit & Operations Coach at Burger King Corp / Restaurant Brands International (2011-08 – 2014-03)

• Enforced brand standards through comprehensive in-restaurant evaluations and targeted coaching across 47 DFW restaurants, driving operational excellence.

Regional Manager at Sushi Avenue Inc (2007-06 – 2011-08)

• Created and enforced food safety and service standards across sushi bars nationwide, ensuring consistent quality for guests and store leadership.

Kitchen Manager at Wing House Bar & Grill (2006-03 – 2007-06)

• Controlled P&L budget managing labor costs for ~35 employees; oversaw procurement and vendor relationships to optimize operational efficiency.

Food Service Director at Aramark School Food Service (2005-03 – 2006-03)

• Directed cafeteria operations across 5 schools, overseeing personnel, menu development, and client relations in full compliance with national nutrition standards.

Assistant Food Service Director at Aramark School Food Service (2004-03 – 2005-03)

• Supported daily operations across 12 school cafeterias, ensuring consistent compliance with national nutrition standards and smooth service delivery.

Kitchen Purchasing Lead at Central Market Gourmet Grocery Store (2002-01 – 2004-03)

• Managed procurement, receiving, and inventory for 200+ fresh products within a $1.6M budget, supporting P&L reporting for a department generating $5M+ in annual revenue.

Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management – Ohio State University