Chipotle COO Jason Kidd on the Power of Saying Yes

Early in his career, while working as a management trainee, Kidd volunteered for the grueling 4 a.m. and overnight shifts that his peers shunned. By tackling the tasks no one else wanted, he gained a holistic view of the business and completed his training faster than his cohort. This unconventional path allowed him to accelerate his growth, proving that visibility and comprehensive experience often outweigh raw talent in the early stages of professional development.

Kidd, formerly the COO of Taco Bell, emphasizes that professional growth rarely follows a linear, glamorous path. He encourages workers to view unpleasant or mundane roles as essential discovery tools. These experiences clarify personal interests and future career goals, often revealing passions that remain hidden until someone steps out of their comfort zone. Beyond grit, he highlights clear communication and the willingness to own outcomes as the primary traits he evaluates when promoting talent today. For those seeking their own dream roles, his message remains simple: be ready to say yes to the work others leave behind.