Team Leader Development Program (TLDP) 

The Team Leader Development Program (TLDP) is your chance to learn, stretch, and step into a bigger version of yourself — at your own pace and with full support. 

This program is for any team member who wants to: 
  • Develop leadership skills 
  • Strengthen guest and team relationships 
  • Learn how Chick‑fil‑A leaders think, act, and serve 
  • Explore whether leadership is the path they want to pursue 

If that sounds like you… TLDP is waiting. 

How the Program Works

  • Self‑Paced Six Month Program

    You move through the program content when you're ready. 
    You’re in the driver’s seat — we’re here to guide and support you. 

  • Supported by Check‑Ins

    You’ll meet with a the Training and Development Director to review progress, get feedback, and set next steps. 

  • A Leadership Exploration

    TLDP helps you learn about leadership… 
    …but completing the program does not guarantee a Team Leader role.

    Instead, TLDP helps you: 

    - Build leadership habits 

    - Strengthen personal and professional skills 

    - Understand what leadership really requires 

    - Decide if leadership is the right next step for YOU 

    Leadership roles are filled based on readiness, performance, alignment with values, and the needs of the restaurant — not TLDP participation alone. 

  • Why Join TLDP?

    TLDP gives you… 

    Real leadership experiences in a safe learning environment 

    Coaching and mentorship from current leaders 

    Growth moments that challenge you 

    New skills you can use anywhere — in or outside CFA 

    A chance to see if leadership is something you truly enjoy 

    It’s an opportunity to grow in Character, A+, Relationships, and Excellence — the core of who we are and how we show CARE to our teams, guests, and community. 

  • Who Should Join?

    TLDP is perfect for team members who are: 

    Curious about leadership 

    Hungry for growth 

    Passionate about people 

    Ready to challenge themselves 

    Consistent, reliable, and motivated 

    Eager to live out our CARE vision every day 

    You don’t need to be perfect — you just need to be willing to learn. 

  • What You’ll Gain

    By the end of TLDP, you’ll walk away with: 

    A deeper understanding of leadership 

    Stronger communication and relationship skills 

    More confidence in yourself 

    Practical tools to improve performance and teamwork 

    A clearer idea of your future path at Chick‑fil‑A 

    Whether or not you pursue a Team Leader role, you will grow — and that growth will impact every part of your life. 

"A business, successful or not, is merely a reflection of the character of its leadership…We must motivate ourselves to do our very best, and by our example lead others to do their best as well….The people are more important than the food"

— S. Truett Cathy

TLDP Expresson of Interest Requirements

  • Consistent Performance & Standards

    - Reliable attendance and punctuality 

    - Must be LvL 4 

    - All Pathways through LvL 4 Completed 

  • Attitude, Behavior & Communication

    must consistently demonstrate and be known for: 

    - Using the Core 4 consistently 

    - Communicating respectfully and professionally 

    - Our Vision: Show Care. 

  • Tenure Requirement

    Minimum 6 months at CFA

  • Initiative

    Candidates should already show signs of leadership potential, such as: 

    - Volunteering to help without being asked 

    - Supporting new team members 

    - Stepping into responsibilities when needed 

    - Showing curiosity about how the restaurant operates

  • Willingness to Own Their Growth

    TLDP is self-paced, which means participants must show: 

    - Self‑motivation 

    - Personal responsibility 

    - Ability to keep themselves on track 

    - Willingness to schedule and attend check-ins 

Ready to Explore Leadership? 

If you meet the requirements above and want to grow your leadership skills, you’re invited to submit an Expression of Interest for the next TLDP class! 

Express Interest