Job Description
KILWINS CHOCOLATES FRANCHISE, INC. Store Opening & Field Training Specialist Nationwide (near major airport preferred; South Florida or Sarasota a plus) | Full-Time, Exempt Pay Range: $75,000 – $90,000 + Bonus Potential (10%) Travel: 80–100% overnight travel required Date Last Revised: May 2026 KILWINS HERITAGE At Kilwins, our Core Purpose is simple yet profound: To create enjoyment and make people happy! Rooted in this purpose are our fundamental values: Treat others as you want to be treated, Do your best, and Have fun! These values form the bedrock of our culture, inspiring our team members to strive for excellence in providing an exceptional confectionery experience to every customer. Since our humble beginnings in 1947, Kilwins has been synonymous with unparalleled quality and genuine hospitality. Over seven decades, we have grown from a single storefront to a renowned confectionery brand with more than 180 franchise-owned and locally operated stores nationwide. Our commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail shine through in every handcrafted treat we offer, from delectable chocolates and creamy fudge to irresistible caramel apples and our famous Original Recipe Ice Cream. Kilwins was acquired by Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) in February 2023. With ambitious plans to expand our franchise network to 400 stores within four years, Kilwins is entering an exciting period of aggressive growth — and the Franchise Opening Specialist is central to that success. “Sweet in Every Sense since 1947®” POSITION SUMMARY The Franchise Opening Specialist is a newly created, first-in-role position that serves as a critical driver of Kilwins’ national expansion strategy. This hands-on, field-based role is responsible for leading new store openings from pre-opening preparation through post-launch stabilization — combining the practical production training expertise of a Training Specialist with the business acumen and franchise relationship skills of a Franchise Business Consultant (FBC). When not actively managing store openings, the Franchise Opening Specialist serves as a key support resource for the FBC team, conducting remedial inspections and targeted training for struggling or newly transferred franchisees, supporting transfers and renewals, and serving as a flexible deployment resource as directed by the FBC team and Director of Franchise Operations. This role requires a highly adaptable, self-directed professional who thrives in dynamic environments, can build trust quickly with franchise owners and their teams, and is equally comfortable in a production kitchen and a business coaching conversation. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES New Store Openings Lead all pre-opening and on-site opening activities for new Kilwins franchise locations nationwide, ensuring operational readiness and alignment with brand standards. Conduct hands-on production training for hot production processes including fudge, caramel corn, brittle, and other specialty products. Train incoming franchisees and their teams on Kilwins’ Core Operating Standards, customer service expectations, food safety protocols, and Brand Promise. Coordinate closely with the FBC team, Training & Learning Development, and Store Support to ensure a seamless opening experience for every new franchisee. Manage logistics related to store openings, including scheduling, resource documentation, and communication with internal stakeholders. Provide post-opening stabilization support, ensuring the franchisee is equipped for independent operation before transitioning ongoing support to their assigned FBC. FBC Team Support & Remedial Training Serve as an on-call and scheduled field resource for the FBC team, conducting additional or remedial inspections and training at the direction of the assigned FBC and Director of Franchise Operations. Support struggling franchisees or newly transitioned locations with targeted operational coaching and hands-on training. Evaluate store performance through the 5-Star Wellness Consultation framework: Products, People, Place, Presentation, Promotion, and Financials. Document findings, develop action plans in coordination with the FBC, and track follow-through on improvement initiatives. Maintain ongoing relationships with previously opened stores as a trusted resource and subject matter expert. Dedicate approximately 20–25% of scheduled time to assisting in Company Stores, maintaining hands-on production proficiency and brand standards alignment. Transfers, Renewals & Compliance Support franchise tr