Wendy's General Manager - Santa Maria, CA
Posted on December 21, 2025
Wendy's is a globally recognized fast-food restaurant chain known for its commitment to quality, freshness, and exceptional customer service. As one of the leading players in the quick-service restaurant industry, Wendy's has built a strong reputation for delivering made-to-order meals and friendly dining experiences across its many locations. This company prides itself on fostering a workplace environment that supports employee growth, collaboration, and success, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking a rewarding career in the food service sector. With a history rooted in innovation and community engagement, Wendy's continues to set standards in fast-food management and operations worldwide.
The General Manager position at Wendy's represents a dynamic leadership role responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of an entire restaurant. This role is critical for establishing the work environment tone and ensuring the highest level of customer hospitality. The General Manager is tasked with building and developing a strong, motivated team that consistently delivers great food and positive experiences to customers. Key responsibilities include recruiting and hiring team members, conducting orientation and training, scheduling staff to meet customer demand efficiently, resolving employee and customer issues, and managing financial aspects such as budgeting and sales analysis to ensure business growth. This position requires a proactive leader with excellent communication skills, a solid track record in people development, and the ability to maintain a positive, upbeat attitude even during challenging situations.
Beyond operational supervision, the General Manager ensures compliance with food safety standards and maintains restaurant facilities and equipment to brand standards. They guide team members to uphold company policies, ensuring food quality, safety, sanitation, and customer guest safety are never compromised. Working in a fast-paced environment, the General Manager also serves as the communication bridge between field leadership and restaurant staff, fostering consistent messaging and feedback. This leadership role is more than managing tasks; it is about building a cohesive team that thrives on mutual respect, efficiency, and shared goals.
Employment with Wendy's is through Cotti Foods Group, a franchisee of Wendy’s Corp. Franchisees operate independently and set their own wage and benefits programs, which can vary. The role typically demands flexibility in working hours and a commitment to upholding the brand's reputation through excellent service and operational excellence. This job offers an exciting opportunity for career advancement within the fast-food management sector for individuals who are passionate about leading teams, delivering great customer service, and driving business success.
- Ability to contribute to the team and maintain a positive attitude and strong work ethic
- Demonstrate a friendly attitude and great customer service skills
- Ability to pay attention to detail, cope with pressure and remain calm when challenging situations arise
- Act in a friendly, courteous, and helpful manner with guests and co-workers
- Strong verbal, reading, strong math skills
- Communicate ideas, suggestions, and concerns in a constructive and professional manner
- Make timely decisions to meet guest and business needs appropriately
- Ability to make quick and appropriate decisions
- Take ownership and responsibility to solve problems
- Must have reliable transportation
- Maintain a professional appearance and good hygiene standards
- Ability to work flexible hours, arrive at work on time and be dependable