We recently caught up with Area Coach (AC) Brenda Gillispie beachside on our Best of the Best (BOTB) reward trip in Cancún, Mexico. “It’s so exciting to be here,” Brenda shares. She describes the experience perfectly: bringing people to the best place ever to enjoy themselves. The milestone was particularly sweet for this self-described “daddy’s girl,” who brought her dad on the trip as her “plus one.” “It’s absolutely amazing,” she says.
This BOTB newbie is the perfect candidate for a vacation in paradise. “I love traveling, I love adventurous stuff,” Brenda shares. “I love doing new things.”
Finding Her Place
Brenda isn’t new to Border Foods. She’s been with us for five years, and knows what it takes to make it to the top. “It took a few years and a lot of hard work, and a lot of teamwork,” she says of her career climb. “[But it] was worth it.”
Brenda joined us as a Shift Lead from another quick service franchisee after hearing her sister gush about her job with us. “She told me all about Border and how amazing they are for their people,” Brenda recalls.
“This is it. This is my place.” – Brenda Gillispie, Area Coach
The connection was immediate. Our culture of recognition and family is what really stood out to her. Now, well into her career journey, she says, “I feel like I’m a part of something that’s so big and beautiful. I love that.”
Hard Work Pays Off
While her feeling of being in the right place was immediate, reaping the rewards took a little longer to come to fruition for Brenda. She admits the road to Best of the Best was a “battle,” in her words.
“I’m not one to get knocked down so quickly. I know these things take time and I was just willing to put in the work,” she says.
“Everything you want in life, you have to work hard for.” – Brenda Gillispie, Area Coach
Inspiring leadership and teamwork helped Brenda stay committed for the long haul. Her favorite part of the AC role is connecting with people. “I feel so inspired by the people that are around me,” she shares. “We’re always there for each other no matter what.”
Looking Ahead
Brenda’s five–year plan includes mulling over a Region Coach position, although she says she always takes stock of her role after every promotion before considering her next move. “I love continuing to improve myself and others,” she says.
“There’s just so much to offer at Border.” – Brenda Gillispie, Area Coach
No matter the title, one thing’s for sure: Brenda plans to stick around with us for the long haul. “I love Border. I’ll die here and I’m okay with that,” she says with a laugh.
If you’re looking for a career with this kind of longevity, consider joining us!
