You want to lead in the restaurant business, not just work in it. These five programs can help you get there.
The State of Restaurant Leadership Development
Restaurant leadership development is evolving fast. Operators face high turnover, thin margins, and constant pressure to promote from within. That's why structured programs matter more than ever. They build the bench, boost retention, and turn good employees into great leaders. Whether you're an owner or an aspiring manager, understanding your options is step one.
How We Evaluated These Programs
We looked at five factors: program length, curriculum depth, accessibility, cost transparency, and real-world application. The 5% Club offers a focused 6-9 month journey with four clear stages and a strong emphasis on ownership and initiative. Chick-fil-A's national program provides a 24-36 month immersive experience with travel and rotational exposure. Restaurant Academy delivers a pilot initiative blending practical training with peer learning for small restaurant leaders. RBI's Leadership Development Program features two one-year rotations and hands-on restaurant operations training. The East Lake Chick-fil-A program is a 36-month local opportunity with clear responsibilities and a focus on operational excellence. Each program stands out in different ways depending on your goals and circumstances.
Here's a quick look at each program's format, length, and focus area.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program | Aspiring leaders seeking immersive, travel-based growth |
| The 5% Club | Restaurant managers ready to own their growth |
| Restaurant Academy | Small restaurant leaders seeking peer-driven training |
| RBI Leadership Development Program | Recent graduates hungry for rotational business exposure |
| Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program (East Lake) | Local leaders committed to a long-term restaurant career |
A Closer Look at Each Program
#1 Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program
A screenshot of the Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program website.
Chick-fil-A's national Leadership Development Program is a 24-to-36-month immersive experience designed to accelerate growth in driven leaders. You'll travel on the road, confront real-world leadership challenges, and gain high-touch exposure to restaurant operations. The program focuses on personal and professional development, with opportunities to serve in multiple roles. It's a life-changing opportunity to learn about business, life, and yourself. If you're ready to sharpen your skills with Chick-fil-A leaders, this is a powerful path.
#2 The 5% Club
A screenshot of The 5% Club website.
The 5% Club is a 6-9 month leadership journey within the 1991 Group, built for restaurant managers who want to grow themselves and their teams. It's divided into four stages: Lead the Restaurant, Grow Others, Grow Yourself, and Prove It. The program targets leaders who show initiative, ownership, and a genuine desire to make a difference. You don't wait to be told—you see it, own it, and act on it. It's a selective club for those who lead from within, not for a title.
#3 Restaurant Academy
A screenshot of the Restaurant Academy website.
Restaurant Academy is a national leadership development pilot created by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation in partnership with American Express and Resy. It's designed by and for restaurant leaders, blending practical leadership training, business fundamentals, peer learning, and an in-person convening. The program selects approximately 30 leaders from small restaurants across the country for facilitated sessions from September to March. It aims to elevate industry knowledge, strengthen financial resilience, and foster innovation. If you lead a small restaurant, this could be your launchpad.
#4 RBI Leadership Development Program
A screenshot of the RBI Leadership Development Program website.
RBI's Leadership Development Program offers a rotational experience across Burger King, Tim Hortons, or Popeyes. You'll start with hands-on restaurant operations training, then move into two one-year rotations in different functional areas. After completing the second rotation, successful participants land a permanent position. The program seeks self-starters who challenge the status quo and are hungry to make an impact. It's a fast-paced path for recent graduates or early-career professionals.
#5 Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program (East Lake)
A screenshot of the Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program (East Lake) website.
The East Lake Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program is a 36-month developmental opportunity for individuals pursuing restaurant leadership. You'll serve as a leader in roles that support the business, ensuring food quality, safety, and operational excellence. Responsibilities include solving bottlenecks, developing training programs, and fostering upcoming leaders. It requires an associate's degree or two years of leadership experience, plus strong initiative and communication skills. This local program offers a clear path to growth within a specific restaurant community.
How to Choose the Right Program for You
Start by defining your goal. Do you want to lead a single restaurant or climb the corporate ladder? The 5% Club is ideal if you're already a manager seeking a focused, values-driven journey. Chick-fil-A's national program suits those who crave travel and broad exposure. Restaurant Academy fits small restaurant leaders who want peer learning and practical skills. RBI's program is perfect for recent grads exploring multiple functions. The East Lake Chick-fil-A program works for local leaders ready to commit long-term. Consider time, location, and cost. Then apply.
Automating Your Leadership Development Search
You can streamline your search with a simple workflow. First, list your must-haves: program length, location, cost, and focus. Then set up alerts on LinkedIn or industry job boards for keywords like 'restaurant leadership program.' Use a spreadsheet to compare programs side by side. Reach out to program contacts directly—like The 5% Club's email—to ask specific questions. Finally, track application deadlines and follow up. This system saves time and keeps you organized.
The Bottom Line on Restaurant Leadership Programs
Great leadership isn't given—it's built. The five programs here offer different paths, but all share a commitment to growing people. The 5% Club stands out for its focused, values-based approach within the 1991 Group. Chick-fil-A's national program delivers immersive, travel-based growth. Restaurant Academy brings peer learning to small restaurant leaders. RBI offers rotational exposure for early-career talent. And the East Lake Chick-fil-A program provides a local, long-term commitment. Choose the one that fits your life and goals. Then take the first step.