We’ve added some talented new people to our facilities team! Please welcome Xao Vang and Kenneth Delancey, both of whom boast extensive professional experience in their respective trades. Without further ado, here’s a quick ‘lil introduction:

Xao Vang

IT Support Specialist

Q: How do you pronounce “Xao”?

A: Sou.

Q: What is Xao’s experience level for this role?

A: Nearly 25 years of technology experience working in the field and leading teams of installers with some similar systems. He’s worked with Comcast, Holiday, Taco John’s and most recently, SwanSys (formerly Minnesota Petroleum Service).

Q: What brought Xao to us?

A: He was drawn to Border’s family-oriented feel.

Q: Any fun facts?

A: Married for 25 years; five children with wife Wanda.

Spending time together no matter what it is, is what brings us joy.

Xao Vang, IT Support Specialist

Q: What does he enjoy doing outside of work?

A: Taking walks, volunteering at church, and playing board games with the family.

Q: What‘s his favorite menu item? 

A: The chili cheese burrito!

Kenneth Delancey

Construction Specialist, Remodel Team

Q: What relevant experience does Kenneth boast for this new role?

A: Twenty-five years as a licensed contractor managing projects of all sizes across many different trades.

Q: What will be his focus? 

A: Combining project management and site supervision, Kenneth’s focus will be overseeing the handful of midterm restaurant remodels we handle on our own each year — our “self-perform” projects — without a general contractor.

Q: Anything to share on the personal side?

A: Kenneth was born and raised in San Diego, CA, and moved to Minnesota in 1987. He and his wife, Karen, live in Maple Grove, and have four adult children who also live locally.

Q: Other fun facts?

A: Kenneth played football with the Minnesota Gophers in 1989 as a running back. He says he still loves the game of football, and is a proud Raiders and Chiefs fan!

Kenneth loves socializing and learning new things.

Q: What is his favorite menu item?

A: Cantina chicken taco or bowl.

We are so excited to officially congratulate Aaron Engler on his promotion to Chief Executive Officer of Border Foods and Marvin Development. This is a new addition to his current role as President.

Aaron’s Taco Bell roots run deep. His dad, Jeff, and Uncle, Lee, co-founded Border Foods in the early ’90s. By the time Aaron was 15, he was working in the restaurants, learning the ins and outs of the business. In 2003, Aaron moved to Border Foods head quarters in New Hope, MN and worked in IT and Finance Departments while earning his degree from the University of Minnesota. Years later, Aaron moved to Border’s sister company, Delaget, and held roles in both product development and marketing. By 2016, the drive to be part of the family business pulled him back to Border Foods.

Since becoming President in 2019, and with guidance and support from the Board of Directors and the Border Foods team, Aaron has successfully led two acquisitions, built 38 restaurants and held focus on the things that matter most in our business: our teams and our people. In the last 5 years, Aaron’s implementation of our new core values and subsequent Culture Committee has helped turn the page on an important new chapter in the business — one with new leaders, and fresh perspective.

“Aaron spent several years building and shaping his leadership team,” says Lee, Border Foods Chairman of the Board.  “He selected and vetted each member, ensuring they worked together seamlessly, which enabled the growth momentum we have enjoyed over the last decade to continue.”

The change in CEO title from Lee to Aaron completes the Engler family’s vision for succession, from founders to the second-generation.

“Aaron has demonstrated excellent leadership as well as team building, and decision-making skills,” says Jeff, Border Foods Co-Founder. “His leadership as President and now as President and CEO, provides a superb path forward for the business.”

We look forward to a bright future full of growth and opportunity. Congratulations, Aaron! 

 

Restaurant General Manager (RGM) Manasseh Williams is in the unique position of managing two Taco Bell locations for us: our Minnetonka store off of Highway 7 and the Ridgedale location along Interstate 394. But before he took on that responsibility, Manasseh was like so many others we’ve interviewed — a 16-year-old kid looking to make some money.

Turns out, Taco Bell was the only job he ever needed. “I’ve been with Taco Bell and just thriving,” he says. The key to Manasseh’s success? He’s always game to take on new endeavors for the sake of growth. And he feels supported along the way. Perhaps thanks in part to our core values, something Manasseh said really align with his goals for the future.

“My bosses definitely empower me to take on challenges and roles that will elevate me for my future,” he shares.

I’m willing to always be coached and accept every challenge.

Manasseh Williams, RGM

Management Double Major

A self described “people person,” Manasseh excels with his busy schedule. In addition to RGM duties, he also attends school at the University of Minnesota (go Gophers!) where he’s majoring in business and marketing, with a minor in finance.

“It’s worth it,” he says about pulling double duty. “I’m making money and I’m doing school, so why not?”

Fortunately, Manasseh likes planning, so he’s adept at scheduling his life around school and work with his signature optimism.

Something to Sing About

Despite his busy schedule, Manasseh is committed to bringing his best to our restaurants every day. And he does it with style. “Once I walk through that door, I automatically want to bring the energy,” he says. For Manasseh, that means singing! He’s been known to break into song for team members and guests alike.

I want to put a smile on all of my employees’ face and the customers’.

Manasseh Williams, RGM

If Manasseh’s career journey with us was a song, it would clearly be sung in the key of MAJOR success!

 

 

Restaurant General Manager (RGM) Brittany Manor joined Border Foods as a nightlife-loving 20-something and currently finds herself in the role of “Taco Bell Mom” to the 20 Taco Bell “children” on her team. We recently caught up with Brittany before her shift at the Owatonna, MN Taco Bell over an order of her breakfast nachos, a personal creation not available on the menu.

“I was just 20, trying to figure out what to do with my life,” she says of the start of her career journey. Enter: Us! Brittany was hired as a Night Shift Closer, a position perfect for night owls who love the vibrant energy of the PM crowd. “It was definitely my scene,” she shares.

With a few years of late night under her belt, Brittany left Taco Bell to pursue a different path, but it didn’t feel like home. “I thought there was a better opportunity … clearly I was wrong,” she says.

People Person

After welcoming her second daughter, Brittany returned to the Border Foods fold. “I ended up coming back and it just felt right,” she shares. “People actually seemed like they cared instead of [feeling like] you were just a number.”

The people are definitely what keeps Brittany loyal to her job. “I absolutely love the people. It just feels like a family atmosphere,” she says. “[Like] getting paid to hang out with your friends.”

And true friends support one another. Before being hired in the RGM role, Brittany was working as an Assistant General Manager (AGM). Her RGM at the time encouraged her to keep climbing the career ladder. “I didn’t believe in myself; he believed in me,” she admits.

Brittany has been in the RGM position for a little over a year, and has big dreams for herself and the members of her team. “I probably wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for the people I work with,” she acknowledges.

Taco Bell Family

As an RGM, Brittany operates under the motto of “listen first” and says she feels like a mom to her team, which means looking out for them. This came into play recently when a team member received an unexpected bill and the team rallied together to get it paid.

This type of family-like support is something Brittany considers one of the best bonuses of the job. She shares that her Area Coach gives her strategies on how to best support her team and reach their goals for the restaurant, one of which is making it to Mexico for Border’s Best of The Best reward trip!

I believe in myself. I can go farther with Taco Bell.

Brittany Manor

When asked where she sees herself in the future Brittany says, “Sky’s the limit at this point.” Keep reaching for the stars!

 

In life, the path to success is rarely a straight line. For Courtney Schuneman, a Shift Lead at Taco Bell, the journey has been one filled with challenges, resilience, and a drive to succeed. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, support, and finding a company that values growth and second chances.

Courtney’s Border Foods story began during one of the most challenging times of her life. “I was homeless at the time with my two kids,” she recalls. After losing her previous job and her home, Courtney found herself desperate for stability. “I had a vehicle, but no place to lay our heads every night,” she shares. Despite these hardships, she knew she needed to provide for her family.

Determined to turn things around, Courtney walked into a nearby Taco Bell. “I knew I needed something,” she says. “Two days later, I started working.” It was a pivotal moment, one that would set her on a path of both personal and professional success.

From the very beginning, Courtney found something at Taco Bell that she hadn’t experienced elsewhere: support. “I’m very thankful for my manager,” she says. “He’s seen so much growth in me in the year I’ve been with the company.” She quickly realized that Taco Bell was more than just a job—it was an opportunity to rebuild her life.

After five months with the company, Courtney’s personal life took a positive turn. “I got into my apartment and got a new car,” she shares proudly. With the stability of a home and a job she enjoyed, Courtney found a sense of relief she hadn’t felt in a long time. But what stands out for her is the sense of family she found within her Taco Bell team. “I call them my family at Taco Bell. I have more of them than I do immediate family,” she says. The close-knit, supportive environment has become a pillar in her life, providing a place where she feels valued and understood.

One of the most significant impacts of Courtney’s journey at Taco Bell has been on her children. “They don’t have to deal with their mom constantly stressed out,” she says. “We have a stable home, a schedule, and it’s smooth sailing now.” She encourages others in tough spots to take a chance, just as she did. 

Taco Bell offers so much support. It really is a family.

Courtney, Shift Lead

 

For Courtney, the future looks bright. She was promoted from Team Member to Shift Lead during her first year on the job. She credits Taco Bell with providing a clear path to growth, one that’s available to anyone with the drive and determination to succeed.

Nothing is impossible with this company. If you want it, you’re going to get it.

Courtney, Shift Lead

Looking ahead, Courtney sees herself continuing to climb the ladder. “I definitely see myself moving up to an RGM position,” she says, noting that she’s excited about the possibility once her children are a bit older. “I’m too old to keep starting over,” she laughs. “I’m comfortable here”