Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine Issue III, 2013 | Page 36
2013 MVP
2013 MVP American Dream Award
For achieving remarkable success
in his new country
Why do you think you were recognized for the American Dream
Award? I can’t say for sure, but I hope it’s in part because I have come to
America and created a successful business that provides many jobs within the
community. I have also tried to be an active participant in these communities
and make sure that I am giving something in return. I am honored to have
been recognized by the MVP Award.
As a multi-unit franchisee, how have you raised the bar within
your own company? We benchmark our results against other franchisees
in the systems we’re involved with. Measuring these results and making adjustments are both necessary. I would also say that we have been aggressive
developers, taking over existing locations and building new ones. We also try to
identify needed changes and make them quickly. It’s important to always look
for ways to improve.
What innovations have you created and used to build your
company? We created our own training software program that helps us keep
stores properly scheduled and staffed. Labor costs are such a significant part of
our operations. With our system we can schedule staffing to ensure great customer service while controlling labor costs and maximizing profitability. I might
support the network,” he says.
His MVP Award is the latest in a
long line of awards and recognition.
One reason he was selected relates to
his extensive and ongoing community
involvement. He co-founded the Latin
America/DFW Fund to raise money
for Latino-based programs and initiatives, and he has supported programs
also add that we give out gift certificates to students in area schools when they
excel in the classroom.
What core values do you think led you to win the MVP Award?
I think it all boils down to focusing on operations. It’s important that we have
the right people with the right attitudes and dedication. If we all do this, the
result will be that we are the best at whatever we do.
What is the value of community involvement for you and your
company? I believe a business cannot truly thrive without taking an active
hand in cultivating strong communities. I co-founded the Latin American/DFW
Fund to raise money for Latino-based programs and initiatives. We support
education and provide incentives for Latino students to stay in school. Almost 5
million free meal certificates are distributed every year to local students through
the program. And we provide 50,000 free meals each year to armed services
veterans on Veterans Day. I’ve also served on numerous local boards.
What leadership qualities are important to you and your team
members? I look for people who are dedicated and committed to the cause:
hard-working, honest people who want to be a part of this team and want to
make this team the best. And that goes from my executive team here all the
way down to the front-line employees in the restaurants.
“I look for people
w