In this exclusive insight, we delve into the daily routine of Jason Kidd, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Chipotle, and uncover the fascinating world of a leader who embraces the front lines.
The Front-Line Leader
Jason Kidd, a seasoned professional with over two decades of retail experience, has found his dream role as Chipotle's COO. His unique approach to leadership involves immersing himself in the daily operations of the restaurants, a strategy he likens to his retail background.
"I don't know what I'd be doing if I weren't out there on the front line, shoulder to shoulder, seeing what's happening. That's the best part of the role," he shares.
A Week in the Life
Kidd's week is a carefully choreographed dance between travel, restaurant visits, and family time. He spends two to three days on the road, visiting roughly a dozen stores in each market. These visits are a mix of planned and surprise inspections, ensuring a consistent experience for customers and a supportive environment for employees.
"Chipotle wants to deliver a consistent experience for our guests. As leaders, we try to be consistent with our visits. We talk about the food, we talk about people, we talk about the results. It's important for our leadership, too," Kidd explains.
The Morning Routine
Kidd's day begins before 6 a.m. with a workout routine that includes strength and cardio exercises. He listens to the news and stays informed, setting the tone for the day ahead. A light breakfast follows, as he prepares for a day of tasting Chipotle's famous guacamole, salsa, and proteins.
Restaurant Visits: A Deep Dive
Kidd's restaurant visits are an immersive experience. He arrives before 9 a.m. to observe the prep work, staying until opening at 10:45 a.m. He assesses the food, the team's dynamics, and the overall atmosphere.
"The foundation for making a great day is making sure the prep goes well in the back of the house, shoulder to shoulder, tasting the food, observing preparation, and spending time with the team," he says.
Consistency and Talent Spotting
Consistency is a key focus for Kidd. He looks for two critical elements during his visits: the quality of the food and the engagement of the people. Chipotle promoted 23,000 people last year, and Kidd's visits are an opportunity to identify internal talent and understand how people react and perform.
A Day of Interactions
Kidd's day is filled with interactions - from standing in line with customers to buying lunch for those around him, he engages with people at every turn. He values these conversations, using them to understand customer preferences and gather feedback.
"I stand in line with guests and interact with them. I buy lunch for the people around me, tell them who I am, and talk to them about how often they come to Chipotle, what they order, what they like about it, and what we can do better," he shares.
Development and Real Estate
Kidd's responsibilities extend beyond restaurant visits. He is also in charge of development and real estate, scouting potential sites for new restaurants. With a long-term goal of reaching over 7,000 restaurants in the US and Canada, understanding the market dynamics is crucial.
Work-Life Balance
Kidd values his family and makes time for them, especially on weekends and during his travels. He connects with his wife and college-aged children, understanding the importance of staying present and intentional when at home.
"My family is incredibly important to me, and when I'm on the road, I try to stay connected. I call my wife around 6 p.m. and try to reach my college-aged kids," he says.
Recharging and Reflection
Kidd recharges through interactions with friends who are uninterested in his work, exercising, and enjoying some alone time. He finds peace in playing golf, traveling, and watching sports.
"If I can sit down and watch 30 minutes of sports by myself, it also recharges me. When I'm running low, I need a little time to myself - and if I take that time, I'm recharged and ready to go," he reflects.
Conclusion
Jason Kidd's leadership style is a testament to the power of immersion and interaction. By embracing the front lines, he ensures a consistent experience for customers, identifies talent within the organization, and maintains a strong connection with his team and family. His story is a reminder that leadership is not just about strategy and numbers but also about the human connections that drive success.
