Tonya Manzano
Experienced Operations Leader
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About
Regional Operations Leader with 25 years driving multi-unit performance, operational scalability, revenue growth, and leadership development across retail, service, and franchise environments. Proven success scaling new markets, leading $15M+ portfolios, and building high-performing teams through internal promotion. Recognized for turning around underperforming operations and delivering measurable gains in profitability, customer experience, and team retention.
Experience
Regional Manager at GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL (2022-07 – 2026-08)
- Launched and scaled 2 new locations to $5.5M in annual revenue, establishing leadership infrastructure, SOPs, and operational systems from the ground up
- Built high-performing leadership pipeline, advancing 10 high-potential employees into management roles, including 2 General Managers and 8 Supervisors
- Consistently beat budget goals and company profit of $1.4M EBITDA in 2025 operations
- Standardized multi-site operations across HR, training, marketing, and facilities by improving execution consistency, scalability, and team performance
- Delivered consistent year-over-year performance exceeding budget targets across all locations
- Led teams of 150+ across multi-site operations driving performance and accountability
District Manager at TWISTERS BURGERS & BURRITOS (2021-01 – 2022-07)
- Directed multi-unit operations across 7 locations generating $5.4M in annual revenue strengthening operational execution and team performance
- Improved revenue over 2019 sales by 11% on average
- Promoted 2 District Managers, 5 General Managers, 4 Assistant Managers, and 11 Supervisors over 6 months from bench strength
General Manager at BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL (2018-07 – 2020-11)
- Managed $2M operation, strengthening team procedures and delivering high-quality customer experience
- Promoted 3 Assistant Managers and 8 Supervisors over 2 years
- Created policies, procedures, and training documents for Operations including company-wide Emergency Action Plan
- Certified over 100 Lifeguards through training and practical exams with Red Cross Certification
Bakery Manger at MARIANO’S (2016-11 – 2018-07)
- Increased sales 2-10% weekly by understanding the customer base, increasing production, and managing underperforming items in the bakery
District Manager at POTBELLY (2010-11 – 2016-11)
- Drove operations for 9 shops with district annual sales of $9.4M with 9 Direct Reports and 125 total team members delivering average store profitability of 25.6%
General Manager at 1st & FRESH CATERING (2011-11 – 2012-11)
- Managed general operations in off-premise catering and delivery for a $3.8M in 2012 annual sales
Regional Marketing Manager at NOODLES & COMPANY (2008-05 – 2010-04)
- Created and executed New Restaurant Opening plans for 8 restaurants across the Midwest covering 75 restaurants in IL, WI, MN, IA
Marketing Director at PANERA BREAD (2001-01 – 2007-11)
- Worked with Operations team to open new locations and develop marketing plans for 19 locations in southern New England
- Created and trained restaurant managers on local store marketing tactics to drive restaurant and catering sales including all philanthropic endeavors
Education
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – BRYANT UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Science in Food Service Management – JOHNSON & WALES UNIVERSITY
