Essential Functions 

• Instructional Design and Development: 
  • Lead the creation and maintenance of innovative core training programs for team members and leadership. 
  • Continuously evaluate and update programs to ensure they remain relevant and impactful.
  • Collaborate with the Learning Systems Manager to ensure seamless integration of training content within the LMS. 
  • Drive development of engaging and creative learning solutions, including e-learning courses, videos, and job aids. 
  • Work with the Field Training team to develop comprehensive New Store Opening materials. 
  • Conduct in-depth needs analysis to ensure training aligns with evolving business goals. 
  • Test and evaluate programs to confirm effectiveness and identify opportunities for enhancement. 
• Project Management: 
  • Spearhead project teams in developing cutting-edge training content. 
  • Manage timelines and deliverables to ensure smooth updates and testing of course releases. 
  • Coordinate with the Learning Systems Manager to ensure smooth updates and testing of course releases. 
  • Oversee annual reviews of training programs and manage refresh cycles to keep content current. 
  • Utilize advanced project management tools to maintain quality and ensure projects are meeting deadlines. 
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with brand operations, marketing, and extended training team to ensure learning solutions support strategic brand initiatives. 
  • Work with the Learning Systems Manager to align course content with system capabilities for optimal user engagement. 
  • Build robust relationships across departments and with franchise partners to understand needs and deliver a high-quality learning experience. 
  • Stay ahead of industry trends to identify efficiencies and engagement opportunities.

Job Summary 

The Instructional Design Manager is pivotal in shaping the learning landscape for our brands. This role will drive the creation of dynamic and impactful training programs, establish solutions that empower team members at all levels and foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. Through close collaboration with cross-functional teams, they will deliver innovative learning experiences that engage and inspire, ultimately enhancing operational performance and brand growth. 

Work Location 

Fixed Hybrid-Atlanta

Education 

• Bachelor’s degree in instructional design, education, or related field (or equivalent years of experience).

Work Experience 

• 5+ years of experience in instructional design or learning development. 
• 2-4 years of experience managing instructional design projects or teams, preferred.
• Experience working in the restaurant or hospitality industry, preferred. 
• Experience in a franchise environment is a plus. 

Skills & Abilities 

• Strong understanding of instructional design methodologies and adult learning theory, with the ability to apply these principles to diverse learning environments.
• Expertise in blended learning development and proficiency in e-learning authoring tools, with Articulate 360, preferred. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) for content creation and design. 
• Strong writing, editing, and content design skills, with attention to clarity, consistency, and the ability to produce engaging learning materials. 
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across all levels of the organization, fostering effective partnerships and stakeholder engagement. 
• Experience partnering with LMS administrators or system owners to ensure accurate content deployment and reporting. 
• Ability to analyze training effectiveness and recommend data-based improvements, leveraging analytics to drive continuous improvement.

Travel Requirements 

• None

About GoTo Foods

About Organization

Atlanta-based platform company GoTo Foods (formerly known as Focus Brands) is a leading developer of global multi-channel foodservice brands. As of June 30, 2025, GoTo Foods, through its affiliate brands, is the franchisor and operator of over 6,900 restaurants, cafes, ice cream shoppes and bakeries in all 50 states and over 65 countries and territories under the Auntie Anne’s®, Carvel®, Cinnabon®, Jamba®, Moe’s Southwest Grill®, McAlister’s Deli® and Schlotzsky’s® brand names, as well as the Seattle’s Best Coffee® brand on certain military bases and in certain international markets. The iconic GoTo Foods brands benefit from strong enterprise growth engines, including marketing, digital, technology and franchise sales & development to propel growth and brand performance. Please visit www.gotofoods.com and connect with us on LinkedIn to learn more.  

GoTo Foods is proud to be Certified™ by Great Place To Work®, the most definitive “employer-of-choice” recognition, and the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience for the second consecutive year.

At GoTo Foods, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and growth, providing opportunities for every associate to develop their skills and thrive as part of a supportive team. Together, we’re powering our brands with the passion of our people—and we invite you to be a part of it.

We welcome open dialogue and constructive feedback on this page. However, we reserve the right to hide or remove comments that are off-topic, repetitive or violate LinkedIn’s community guidelines. To maintain a respectful and productive space, we ask that all participants engage in good faith. For inquiries related to specific policies, please visit GoToFoods.com or contact our team directly at pressgroup@gotofoods.com