What is the definition of 'Operating Manager' for an Aw Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 11.10 Management. The Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant at all times must be under the direct, on-premises supervision of you, a Principal Owner, or an operating manager who has successfully completed our training program and who will manage the day-to-day operations of the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant ("Operating Manager").
If any Operating Manager ceases to act as the manager of the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant, you must manage the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant until such time as a replacement manager has satisfactorily completed the training program.
You must notify us in writing of the name of each Operating Manager you designate before they begin managing the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant, and you agree that we may direct communications to the Operating Manager.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 39–40)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant must be under the direct, on-premises supervision of the franchisee, a Principal Owner, or an operating manager. The operating manager must have successfully completed Aw's training program and will manage the day-to-day operations of the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant. Aw requires the franchisee to notify them in writing of the name of each Operating Manager they designate before they begin managing the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant. Aw may also direct communications to the Operating Manager.
This requirement ensures that a trained and approved individual is always overseeing the restaurant's operations. For a franchisee who cannot personally manage the location, hiring a qualified Operating Manager is essential. The manager's successful completion of Aw's training program is a prerequisite, highlighting the importance of adhering to Aw's operational standards.
The franchisee bears the responsibility of informing Aw about the designated Operating Manager, and Aw retains the right to communicate directly with the manager. This stipulation allows Aw to maintain a clear line of communication with the individuals responsible for the daily functioning of the franchise and ensure compliance with their standards. If an Operating Manager leaves, the franchisee must manage the restaurant until a replacement completes the training program.