In the fast-paced world of fast food, where every second counts and every decision matters, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Chipotle plays a pivotal role. This article delves into the daily routine of Chipotle's COO, Jason Kidd, who visits a dozen stores a week, offering a unique insight into the inner workings of this popular restaurant chain. But what makes this routine truly fascinating is the personal touch that Kidd brings to his role, blending his passion for people and food with a strategic mindset. From his early morning workouts to his late-night sports, Kidd's day is a carefully crafted blend of business and personal life, all in the name of delivering a consistent and exceptional experience for Chipotle's guests.
Kidd's day begins before 6 a.m., with a focus on self-care. He believes that taking care of himself is crucial, especially given the demanding nature of his job. His morning routine includes a workout, listening to the Wall Street Journal's "What's News" podcast, and a light breakfast. This sets the tone for a day filled with both physical and mental challenges. One of the key aspects of his routine is his commitment to consistency. He visits roughly a dozen stores in each market, with about three out of every four visits planned in advance. This consistency is not just about the visits themselves but also about the approach he takes to each one.
Kidd's visits are not just about checking off a list; they are about building relationships and understanding the pulse of the business. He spends time with the team, observing how they prepare the food and interact with guests. He looks for two key things: food and people. The food must be right, and the people must be right. This means that he is constantly on the lookout for talent, promoting 23,000 people last year alone. He also spends time with the regional team, having dinner with them to get to know them better and understand their aspirations.
What makes Kidd's routine truly fascinating is the personal touch he brings to his role. He stands in line with guests, buying lunch for them and talking to them about their experiences at Chipotle. He tries to make each interaction informal and relaxed, diffusing any nerves that employees might have. This approach is not just about making the employees feel comfortable but also about building a genuine connection with the guests.
Kidd's day is also about understanding the market and the competition. He spends time visiting potential sites and looking at new restaurants, trying to get a feel for the market and understand what's going on. This is a crucial part of his role, as Chipotle aims to reach over 7,000 restaurants in the US and Canada. He connects with direct reports, cross-functional partners, and peers, taking time to recap the day and determine any immediate action that needs to be taken.
In the late afternoon, Kidd connects with his family, calling his wife and trying to reach his college-aged kids. This is a crucial part of his routine, as he believes that family is incredibly important. He also takes time to watch sports and read, allowing himself a little time to himself. This is a vital part of his self-care routine, as he needs to recharge to be ready for the next day's challenges.
Kidd's day is a carefully crafted blend of business and personal life, all in the name of delivering a consistent and exceptional experience for Chipotle's guests. From his early morning workouts to his late-night sports, every aspect of his routine is designed to help him stay on top of his game. In my opinion, what makes this routine truly fascinating is the personal touch that Kidd brings to his role, blending his passion for people and food with a strategic mindset. It's a reminder that in the fast-paced world of fast food, the human touch can make all the difference.
