Franchise Compliance Specialist

The Franchise Compliance Specialist ensures that all franchisees within the GBC Food Services, LLC network adhere to the established operational, legal, and brand standards. This role involves regular monitoring, auditing, and reporting to ensure compliance with franchise agreements and regulatory requirements. The specialist will work closely with franchisees to provide guidance, training, and support to maintain consistent operations across all locations.
This role is responsible for supporting the franchise lifecycle through the timely preparation and issuance of Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs), Franchise Agreements (FAs), renewals, Joinder Agreements, and termination notices; maintaining accurate franchise records; monitoring compliance activities; and coordinating required documentation and follow-up.
The specialist will work closely with franchisees, Sales, Operations, Regional Managers, Legal, Accounting, and other internal teams to ensure franchise documentation, agreements, renewals, ownership changes, and compliance requirements are completed accurately and within established timelines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct regular compliance audits across all franchise locations to ensure adherence to franchise agreements, company policies, and legal requirements.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive understanding of franchise agreements and applicable laws, including labor laws, health and safety regulations, and food service standards.
• Collaborate with legal and operational teams to update and revise compliance standards as needed.
• Provide training and resources to franchisees on compliance requirements and best practices.
• Prepare detailed reports on compliance status, identifying areas of non-compliance, and recommending corrective actions.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for franchisees on compliance-related issues, providing guidance and resolving concerns.
• Monitor industry trends and changes in regulations that could impact franchise operations.
• Assist in the development of compliance-related documentation, such as manuals, checklists, and training materials.
• Participate in the onboarding process for new franchisees, ensuring they understand and commit to compliance standards.
• Escalate significant compliance issues to senior management and collaborate on resolution strategies.

Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and compliance management software.
• Strong understanding of legal and regulatory requirements in the franchise industry.

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and franchise agreements.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain thorough records and documentation.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to travel as needed to conduct on-site audits and training sessions.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Law, or a related field.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in compliance, legal, or franchise operations.
• Experience in the prepared foods industry is highly desirable.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to travel to various franchise locations as required.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Work Environment:

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting, with occasional travel to franchise locations.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.