Franchise Counsel

FRANCHISE COUNSEL

WINGSTOP RESTAURANTS, INC.

WHO WE ARE

We’re not in the wing business. We’re in the flavor business. It’s been our mission to Serve the World Flavor since we first opened in 1994, and we’re just getting started. 1997 saw the opening of our first brand partner operated Wingstop location, and by 2002 we had served the world one billion wings. It’s flavor that defines us and has made Wingstop one of the fastest growing brands in the restaurant industry.

Above all else – our success is largely due to our people and our core values, or what we call The Wingstop Way of being entrepreneurial, service-minded, fun, and authentic. We believe having a strong people foundation centered on these collective values creates a crave-worthy culture and talented team, as well as ensures our brand is poised for accelerated growth. We all win together.

WHAT WE’LL NEED

The Franchise Counsel is a senior leadership position responsible for providing legal guidance and strategic direction in franchise operations, both domestically and internationally. This role requires a seasoned attorney with extensive experience in franchise law, business development, and international expansion.

Responsibilities:

1. Legal Strategy and Compliance:
   • Develop and implement legal strategies to ensure compliance with franchise laws, regulations, and contractual agreements.
   • Review, draft, and negotiate franchise agreements, franchise disclosure documents (FDDs), and related legal documents to protect the organization's interests.
   • Provide legal guidance and support to internal stakeholders on franchise-related matters, including compliance, dispute resolution, and risk management.
   • Stay abreast of changes in franchise laws and regulations, and proactively advise senior management on potential implications and risks.
2. Franchise Development and Expansion:
   • Lead the legal aspects of franchise development and expansion initiatives, both domestically and internationally.
   • Conduct due diligence on potential franchise partners and territories, assessing legal and regulatory requirements, market conditions, and cultural considerations.
   • Work closely with business development teams to structure franchise agreements and negotiate terms with prospective franchisees.
   • Navigate international legal landscapes, including franchise laws, intellectual property rights, and cross-border transactions, to facilitate successful market entry and expansion.
3. Risk Management and Dispute Resolution:
   • Identify and mitigate legal risks associated with franchise operations, including franchisee disputes, intellectual property issues, and regulatory compliance.
   • Develop and implement strategies for dispute resolution, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation when necessary.
   • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to resolve legal disputes in a timely and cost-effective manner, preserving the organization's reputation and interests.
4. Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management:
   • Serve as the primary legal advisor to senior leadership and franchise operations teams, providing strategic guidance and support on legal matters.
   • Foster positive relationships with franchise partners, legal counsel, and regulatory authorities, maintaining open lines of communication and trust.
   • Represent the organization in legal and regulatory forums, industry associations, and franchise-related events to enhance brand reputation and visibility.
   • Advocate for franchisees' interests within the organization, addressing concerns and facilitating effective communication channels.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school; active membership in good standing with the Bar Association.
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience practicing franchise law, with a focus on franchise agreements, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution.
• Proven track record of successful franchise development and expansion, including international experience.
• Strong understanding of franchise laws, regulations, and legal frameworks across multiple jurisdictions.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and provide practical solutions.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.

WHO YOU ARE 

HUMBLE: Embracing humbleness fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment, where individuals prioritize the success of the team over personal recognition, ultimately contributing to a more cohesive and effective workplace.

HUNGRY: There’s a fire in you to keep pursuing excellence. You actively seek out challenges, set ambitious goals, and consistently demonstrate a proactive approach to tasks. You have a desire to support Wingstop in our goal to become a Top 10 Global Restaurant Brand.

SMART: Not solely based on intellectual prowess, but rather on emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills. A keen understanding of others, communicating effectively and collaborating seamlessly.

SERVICE-MINDED: A selfless and dedicated focus on helping others succeed. Consistently prioritizes the needs of colleagues and the organization, willingly offering support and contributing to the overall well-being of the team. 

ENTREPRENEURIAL: Takes initiative, a willingness to take calculated risks, and constantly searching for opportunities to improve processes or contribute to new ideas.

BENEFITS

FLAVOR PERKS:

FUN IS THE BEST FLAVOR:

Wingstop provides equal opportunities for everyone that works for us and everyone that applies to join our team, without regard to sex or gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, any service, past, present, or future, in the uniformed services of the United States (military or veteran status), or any other consideration protected by federal, state, or local law.