Director, Strategy

575 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA

Posted Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Our restaurants are only the tip of the flame! If you’re looking for a fast-paced, innovative and welcoming workplace then a career with our Familia is right for you.

• Hybrid work schedule
• Competitive pay and bonus
• Medical + Dental + Vision Insurance + HSA Savings Account
• 401(K) Plan with match and immediate vesting
• Free El Pollo Loco food (Dine Out Card) + Restaurant Discount
• Discounts on theme parks, movie tickets, sports events, hotels and more...

The Sr. Director/Director of Strategy will lead the development and execution of data-driven strategies that enhance our business performance and will act as a central figure in partnering with the leadership team on strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a creative, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to synthesize large data sets from multiple sources to can drive strategy into action.

They are highly adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a strong leadership presence and the ability to work cross-functionally to motivate, influence, and inspire teams. This role will have significant access to the leadership team and must be seen as a trusted partner. Sound business judgment and the ability to work with ambiguity are imperative.

This role requires a blend of analytical skills, creativity, and leadership to help expand our brand, improve profitability, and position the company for continued success.

• Strategic Planning :
  Lead the development of the company's long-term strategy, including market expansion, new business and innovation opportunities, and . Provide strategic guidance to the executive team and ensure alignment with overall business objectives. Own the development of the company’s 5-year financial plan.
• Market & Competitive Analysis :
  Analyze industry trends, competitor activities, and market dynamics to identify new opportunities, threats, and potential areas for growth. Use consumer and market insights to refine the company’s positioning and develop actionable business plans.
• Operational Optimization :
  Work closely with the operations team to identify process improvements, streamline workflows, and enhance operational efficiency across all locations. Develop strategies to reduce costs, improve margins, and enhance guest experience.
• Financial Performance :
  Partner with the finance team to evaluate financial performance, set key performance indicators (KPIs), and develop cost-effective strategies to drive revenue growth and profitability.
• Corporate Development :
  Identify and assess potential opportunities to expand the company’s footprint and capabilities.
• Investor Relations :
  Regularly communicate strategy updates, progress, and results to senior leadership, board members, and key stakeholders, helping to prepare for quarterly IR calls and other IR events.
• Analytics and Insights Leadership :
  Work closely with the CEO, CFO, and other Executive Leaders to provide strategic reviews of specific topics and lead key strategic sessions (eg, periodic Business reviews, Strategic Offsites, etc.)
• Annual Planning :
  Work with Finance and the Insights and Analysis team to shape the company Annual Operating Plan (AOP), and prepare materials for business meetings throughout the year.
• Board of Directors Meetings :
  Lead timeline for board meeting preparation, working closely with the leadership team and key stakeholders to craft the agenda and create materials. Owns the final board deliverables.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. The requirements listed below are representative of the education and/or experience required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Marketing, Statistics, Data Science, or a related field; MBA or…