Director of Operations

our vision statement is to create amazing opportunities for our people – from a valued dishwasher to a Regional VP of Operations. We offer “Come Grow with Us” events for employees to learn about career opportunities within First Watch; in 2024 alone, we’ve invited over 3,200 team members to 11 events across five markets. FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS goal: 60% internal promotions. We know that happy employees pay it forward through exceptional hospitality and a positive environment – which leads to a memorable experience for all customers and exemplifies our mission to Make Days Brighter.”

they are built on a core principle, established by our co-founder in 1983, to put others before yourself, to go above and beyond for the customer and for each other through kindness. Kindness informs our Five Steps of Service and “You First” ideology, guiding our teams to serve with care, openness, and purpose. We roll up our sleeves, consistently challenge ourselves to be better, and work hard with positivity, resilience, and grit daily. We stand shoulder to shoulder as one team that faces challenges and celebrates successes, together."

handwriting letters to employees when they celebrate milestone work anniversaries and by sending a President’s Pin to those who go above and beyond for a customer or co-worker. Chris Tomasso facilitates in-person fireside chats at the F.A.R.M. Chris reminds the managers that at the end of the day, First Watch is simply bacon and eggs – a perspective that builds camaraderie and eases tension on high-volume days. By modeling our core values, Chris has created an inclusive culture that fosters kindness and continuous improvement."

hosting our annual We Hear You (W.H.Y.) Tour across the country and at the Home Office. The Tour connects our senior leadership team with employees from all divisions to enhance the workplace environment through feedback on a variety of topics. Since its inception, we’ve talked to more than 1,000 employees and logged more than 1,200 ‘listening’ hours, and in turn, have made meaningful (oftentimes immediate) improvements to operations, technology, benefits, compensation, and employee communication, including the founding of The Avocado Post, an internal magazine which informs and celebrates our people. Our GM Council, twenty members who are nominated annually, gives monthly feedback to our COO; helping him make informed business decisions through a people focused lens."

leveraging an engagement tool to communicate with team members directly about benefits and company news. Personalized texts for birthdays, work anniversaries and, in times of crisis, used to check on safety and wellbeing. We hold weekly meetings and complete monthly check-ins with managers to underscore the importance of operational excellence and personal connection. Our annual leadership conference brings general managers across the country together for 2 ½ days to educate, motivate and celebrate.”