– BORDER FOODS –

A TACO BELL FRANCHISEE

  • RGM Matar is Fluent in Family

    RGM Matar is Fluent in Family

    Matar Ndiaye is the Restaurant General Manager (RGM) of Border Foods’ Roseville, MN Taco Bell, but his story begins much farther away in Senegal, West Africa, where he is from. His international upbringing allowed him the opportunity to learn four languages and instilled a mindset to approach new opportunities with excitement. 

    Matar may have moved thousands of miles away from where he grew up, but he has found family in Border Foods. “I feel the love,” he shares.

    Matar came to Border Foods with a lot of experience in the quick service restaurant (QSR) industry. After taking a brief hiatus from working with the company, Matar found his way back because at Border Foods, “they treat you with respect” – something Matar said was lacking at his other employers.

    I want to work for this company forever.

    Matar Ndiaye, RGM

    The Roseville Taco Bell opened in October 2023. Matar says hiring and training for a location that was still being built, was a challenge. But his team believed in the project and their patience paid off. “I cannot tell you how thankful and grateful [I am] to my team,” Matar shares.

    If you want to understand the real Border Foods, Matar urges people to take a look at our core values. “Think about each word of those core values,” he shares. “You can see how Border Foods is a great company.”

    We will unlock the full potential of our employee … by creating a safe, welcoming environment where everyone can strive.

    Matar Ndiaye, RGM

    Citing Border Foods’ many benefits, like tuition reimbursement and bonus opportunities, Matar emphasizes, “It’s more than tacos and burritos. They’re taking care of their employees.” 

    If you’re looking for a career at Border Foods, Matar is ready to provide a warm welcome.

    “Whatever you are looking for, we are here to support you,” he assures. RGMs like Matar are what the heart of Border Foods is made of.

     

    Border Foods

  • RGM Tim is Family-Focused in West St. Paul

    RGM Tim is Family-Focused in West St. Paul

    Tim Engel is a Restaurant General Manager (RGM) for Border Foods’ Taco Bell on Robert Street in West St. Paul, MN. He was working for another QSR franchise when, with fatherhood on the horizon, he says he “ … was looking for something that could manage work and life a little bit easier.”

    That’s where we came in! Tim joined the Border Foods team two years ago and, “it’s been good ever since.”

    Hiring was one pain point made easier when Tim joined our Robert Street location — applications to join the team are stacked! Having a great team doesn’t hurt either! One of his team members has been with Taco Bell for 35 years! And several others boast 10-plus years with the restaurant. 

    What’s the key to all of this longevity? “We all stick together and work together as a team,” Tim says.

    Everybody just wants to work for Taco Bell.

    Tim Engel, RGM

    Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

    Our Robert Street Taco Bell is a busy location, but Tim and his team still manage to have fun while working hard. He says many on his team talk about being like a family, which makes being away from home a little easier. It may also explain why Tim sounds like a proud father when talking about his people. “I enjoy the team that I work with,” he says, adding, “It’s just been a blast.”

    It’s pretty important to have the right people around you.

    Tim Engel, RGM

    Goals & Advice

    When asked to share his top tips for other managers in the business, Tim shares his two favorites: “Stay true to yourself” and “don’t ever take anything too personally.” Solid advice! Encouraging career growth and development are also key pieces to his managerial success.

    Tim has big goals for 2024! His restaurant is already on its way to becoming a training location, and he personally has his sights set on becoming an Area Coach (AC). Even though it’s been a mild Minnesota winter, Tim also dreams of warmer temps and one day earning a spot on Best of the Best trip to Mexico! No wonder everybody wants to work for Taco Bell! 

    Border Foods

  • Win. Rest. Repeat. Meet Eight-Time BOTB Winner

    Win. Rest. Repeat. Meet Eight-Time BOTB Winner

    Heather Schwartz has been to Mexico for the Best of the Best (BOTB) trip every year that she’s been employed with us. That’s eight times in a row! 

    When she’s not at the pool, we assure you this gal keeps busy. Heather is Restaurant General Manager (RGM) of our Willmar, MN Taco Bell, which has been No. 1 companywide three of the last five years (just surpassed $2 million in sales at the end of fiscal 2023!)

    You have to persevere through the hard times, not give up on yourself or your team.

    Heather Schwartz, RGM

    It’s All About The People

    So what’s Heather’s secret? This repeat winner gives credit to her people!

    “I obviously can’t do it alone,” she shares. “It’s about your team. None of it’s possible without them.” 

    While Heather has certainly enjoyed traveling on BOTB trips, she looks forward to seeing others benefit.

     “I’m excited about hopefully having my own team of people to bring there and have the same experience that I’ve had,” she says. “When we can get that to more people … I think it just buys into Border Foods’ culture that they care.” 

    Recognition is important to Heather. “It feels like all [of] your hard work and all the little extras you do … not giving up when the going gets tough … it’s all worth it,” she explains.

    She says of course the trip is amazing, but it’s the recognition and acknowledgment that really matter.

    It’s not always what you get, it’s about the purpose behind it.

    Bonding Time

    Purpose extends beyond recognition when it comes to reward trips. According to Heather, it’s a chance to bond and get to know people. Pool time is a perk!

    This year, Heather will bring her best friend as her “plus one” to Mexico, someone who’s played an integral part in helping her have more flexibility while juggling young kids and a career.

    But from now until departure time, she hopes to finish up Area Coach training and is already mentally preparing for summer, which is peak taco season in Willmar. Want to find your summer job? Apply today!

     

     

    Border Foods

  • Leaders With Big Heart at Border!

    Leaders With Big Heart at Border!

    Announcing this year’s Heart of Border Foods recipients, honoring a small but mighty group of leaders who embody all that is good in the Border world. Congratulations to the following individuals!

    Brian Axness, CFO

    Brian is “a super inclusive leader” who “challenges everyone around him” and brings incredible enthusiasm (watch video to hear these sentiments for yourself). Need we say more?! Brian joined the company when payroll and accounting were brought in-house, hired a solid team and is credited for retaining all of those good people! This speaks to Brian’s ability to create great culture.

    Andrea Ramirez, RGM

    Andrea has trained loads of people at Border Foods with heart, incredible commitment and the “biggest smile on her face.” Quite simply, Andrea is pure joy to be around! She also models doing the right thing to those around her. “No one ever doubts her commitment,” one admirer shares. 

    Juli Sargent, Safety & Risk Manager

    We’ve had the pleasure of 40-plus years with this wonderful lady! In her role, Juli plays a big part in taking care of both individuals’ and Border’s best interests. She’s said to be “an incredible human being” and “the most caring, loving person in the company.” It’s her great big heart that makes her deserving of Heart of Border Foods!

    Jackie Lamoureux, RGM

    This Heart of Border Foods award, given posthumously, pulls at our heartstrings as we remember a beloved friend and compassionate co-worker. Jackie was said to light up the room and have an exceptional gift in her ability to connect with others. She touched so many at Border Foods, leaving a lasting impact. Her beautiful legacy lives on …

    Josh Miller, Area Coach

    Josh embodies all of our core values in incredible ways — as one colleague says, there’s no greater representation in the field! This guy is truly loved at all levels of the company and is known for being a humble, caring leader who shows a passion for the well-being of his team.

    Danny Grovenstein, RGM

    Danny is a leader who truly wants everyone to be successful! “He just gathers people around,” says one admirer. He emulates our core values of teamwork and family culture, and is always willing to help out wherever needed.

    At Border Foods, we think our people are awesome sauce! And these folks are proof! Congratulations to another deserving crew of Heart of Border Foods people with big hearts. 

    Border Foods

  • Serving Up Support to Chase Your Dreams: Scholarship Applications are Now Open!

    Serving Up Support to Chase Your Dreams: Scholarship Applications are Now Open!

    Border Foods is investing in YOUR higher education. Education is important to us! That’s why we created the Border Foods and Carol Williams Scholarships, aimed at supporting our team members in pursuit of dreams outside the restaurant. 

    Since we launched these programs in 2019, we’ve given out hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarship money to students within the Border Foods family. And we’ve got more than TRIPLE that amount to give away in 2024! Thanks to our inaugural Swinging For Scholarships event, we raised an additional $120,000 for our scholarship programs. That will provide for the handing out of 25 scholarships this year! Money granted can go toward tuition and other school costs.

    Border Foods Scholarship Eligibility:

    • Be a current employee of Border Foods;
    • Currently pursuing post-secondary education;
    • Employed at least three months, with an average of six hours/week.

    Carol Williams Scholarship Eligibility (Same as Above)

    Application deadline is Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to apply! Visit borderfoods.com/scholarships-2024 to learn more.

    Border Foods

  • Now Serving: Border Foods’ Taco Bell in Wyoming, MI!

    Now Serving: Border Foods’ Taco Bell in Wyoming, MI!

    Growth continues to be the name of the game for Border Foods. We recently celebrated the grand opening of our Taco Bell restaurant at Clyde Park Ave in Wyoming, MI! This location marks store No. 4 for Border Foods in the area.

    This newest restaurant is located near the intersection of Clyde Park Avenue and 54th Street, just off the extremely busy U.S. 131. Most notably, the area is also home to a large UPS processing facility, Craig’s Cruisers Family Fun Center, Spectrum Entertainment Complex (with bowling, golf simulators and an arcade), and large shopping attractions, offering a tremendous opportunity for us to attract hungry shoppers. We’re happy to provide quality food fast!

    Restaurant General Manager (RGM) Bryce Jones has been in the food service business for 13 years and started his career with Border Foods in the fall of 2023. Of the opportunity, Bryce says, “I’m excited to be a part of a company that has a great set of core values to operate around.”

    Bryce has the support of two assistant managers, Aimee Lyons and Byron Morris; two Shift Leads, Kahdejah Burns and Ka’Breanna Neal; and a staff of 32.

    I am excited to build an awesome culture, and demonstrate what it means to have pride in your work ethic each and every shift.

    Bryce Jones, RGM

    Area Coach (AC) Amanda Schlee has worked tirelessly to support the onboarding of our new Clyde Park team. Thank you so much, Amanda, for the incredible hard work and your positivity in getting this restaurant opened! As always, we could not execute this new addition without the teamwork from our supporting RGM, Tracy Broton, and our corporate office. 

    If you want to work for a company that supports team members and celebrates winning together, consider joining Border Foods today!

    Border Foods

  • Volunteering in Our Communities

    Volunteering in Our Communities

    It’s a tradition we can’t get enough of: getting Border Foods leaders out of our restaurants and into the community for some hands-on volunteering. Enjoy highlights from an active 2023 holiday season across the markets!

    “We try to get involved with organizations that we already have relationships with through the Taco Bell Foundation,” says Community Outreach Specialist Mollie Sommer. Proximity to our restaurants is obviously key.

    Volunteering for organizations that already receive grants from the Foundation gives our Area Coaches (ACs) and managers the chance to engage directly with those who benefit from our year-round Round Up fundraising at the register. 

    Volunteering “freshens it up,” gets our people doing something out of the norm for a couple of hours.

    Spotlight on Sioux Falls, SD

    Border Foods has been volunteering during the holidays for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire since 2015. In December, a small team of our volunteers stopped by the club to read stories and work on art projects with local youth. In recent years, costumes have added to our fun — Assistant General Manager (AGM) Nick Ragsdale from Mitchell, SD, dressed up to become “Saint Nick” and handed out treats to the kids.

    I love the focus on youth and building the future for all these great kids.

    Steve Spindler, New Area Coach

    Boys & Girls All Around

    Border Foods teams volunteered at 10 Boys & Girls Clubs in 2023, including the Sioux Empire club. AC Jenn Coleman sums up the benefit to kids perfectly: “They get direct interaction with an adult who cares about them and helps them do fun things!” 

    Check out all of our other stops during the 2023 holiday season:

    Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County

    Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids

    Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Valley

    Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore

    Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland

    Boys & Girls Club of Rockford

    Boys & Girls Clubs of Twin Cities

    Boys & Girls Clubs Yellowstone County

    Our team had a blast with the kids!

    Jenn Coleman, Area Coach

    In addition to making an impression on our local youth in various markets, helping out with holiday crafts and playing basketball, we also sent teams of volunteers to:

    Feed My Starving Children (FMSC)

    St. Cloud Salvation Army

    Border Foods

  • Kicking Off 2024, Retro Style

    Kicking Off 2024, Retro Style

    In January, we jumped right into fiesta mode with our company rally. Hosted every year to get us moving forward together in focused fashion — with a dash of spirit and celebration — we enjoyed our time together! Check it out on Instagram!

    We Came, We Roared, We Rallied!

    The fun always starts with excitement on our red carpet. “It’s about people,” says President Aaron Engler. We are nothing without our people!

    Congratulations to this year’s deserving award recipients, including the esteemed:

    RGM Circle Of Excellence

    Tracy Broton, Cooperville

    Stacy Kirkpatrick, Grand Rapids

    AC Circle Of Excellence

    Chris McElroy, Area 29

    Hanna Wright, Area 24

    AC Of The Year

    Octivia Erickson, Area 2

    RGM Of The Year

    Brandan Wagner

    RC Of The Year

    Steve Daggett, Region 2

    More From The Day’s Events

    It didn’t stop there! Check out other highlights from the 2024 Rally:

    • Keynote speaker Matt Maybery — author of “Culture is the Way” — spoke about the evolution of leadership;
    • We were humbled by a touching tribute to friend and former co-worker Jackie Lamoureux, who was honored posthumously with our Heart of Border Foods Award;
    • We introduced a new booth contest that brought office and restaurant staff together as department teams in a collaborative way. Meet the winning cross-company team that created the HR Technology Booth:
      • Corrine Kindred
      • Frank Tuka
      • Richelle Johnson
      • Jaycee Calendar
      • Brittany Roda
      • Theresa Williams
      • Jenni Bang
      • Heather Knight 
    • A supreme number of sweeeeeet prizes were given out; and
    • We revealed this year’s BOTB winners!

    Border Foods

  • Growing the Heart of Border Foods with “Heartstyles”

    Growing the Heart of Border Foods with “Heartstyles”

    An Above Restaurant Leader (ARL) meeting recently welcomed every ARL from the entire company for a few days of growth, training and learning, where we spent time focusing on an exciting new offering planned for 2024: Heartstyles!

    Heartstyles is a leadership development program designed to give Border Foods team members the tools to become the best versions of themselves, lead authentically, and build a workplace culture that unlocks team member potential and delivers strong results.

    The Heartstyles philosophy of giving individuals and teams the ability to create positive outcomes for themselves and others really resonated with Border Foods’ mission to live our core values. Like “excellence,” which we define as taking initiative, embracing challenges and working to exceed expectations while striving to realize opportunities for continuous improvement.

    Heartstyles is really about personal development.

    Sharla Hennek, VP of Human Resources 

    Taco Bell Corporate recently invited us to take part in a “train the trainer” class. As a result, five Border Foods HR team members and one Operations leader became certified to facilitate and teach the Heartstyles class at Border Foods!

    The Soft Launch

    To give these leaders the opportunity to see the benefits of their training, we began small with pilot classes for our HR team and Region Coaches. The next phase is to facilitate a class for the rest of the ARLs, Area Coaches and some ACs in training. Our goal is to open up Heartstyles to our Restaurant General Managers (RGMs) in 2024.

    Aligning with our core value of accountability, Border Foods is willing to take responsibility for our actions and their impact on performance outcomes, which is where this new leadership training resource comes in!

    “By influencing and helping our leaders be more effective in engaging with the team that they support within the restaurants, it’s going to help drive interactions with the guests,” Sharla shares.

    Stay tuned for more on this amazing new initiative! And if you want to work for a company that’s dedicated to your personal growth, consider applying to join our team today!

     

     

    Border Foods

  • WHAT’S NEW: CENTERVILLE TAKES CENTER STAGE IN WHITE BEAR LAKE

    WHAT’S NEW: CENTERVILLE TAKES CENTER STAGE IN WHITE BEAR LAKE

    You can’t stop a good thing! And we think bringing more Taco Bells to taco-lovin’ Minnesota is a delectable idea! 

    One of our newest locations is in St. Paul suburb White Bear Lake at 4600 Centerville Road. It opened in early October 2023 and has been a great addition to our Twin Cities metro operations.

    Management of the new White Bear Lake Taco Bell includes Region Coach Nathan Besler, Area Coach Brittany Siebenaler and Restaurant General Manager (RGM) Jerry Vang, who is new to the Border Foods family. Jerry is supported by Assistant Manager Meranda Ards and Shift Leader Katrina Bennick.

    About RGM Jerry

    Jerry joined us in January 2023 after having worked for a family-owned restaurant. He trained at our Pheasant Ridge Taco Bell in Blaine, MN and then transitioned to Robert Street in Saint Paul. He was specifically hired by Brittany to lead this new location — her first new build. Brittany worked diligently to prepare and develop Jerry for this career opportunity. 

    We are proud of Brittany’s dedication to proper training and development for our newest location.

    Jerry and the entire White Bear Lake team spent a lot of time training at the Oakdale Taco Bell. For this, we are incredibly grateful for RGM Nathaniel Kukura’s time and attention. We couldn’t have done this without the love and support from his entire team.

    The White Bear Lake Taco Bell currently has a staff of 14 team members, however, we’re looking for more people! After all, Jerry aims to staff, train and develop a team that is one to be proud of! So don’t wait, check out our job openings today.

    Border Foods