At Border Foods, we’re lucky enough to have many incredible, tenured employees. After celebrating accomplishments at the Border Foods rally this winter, and after reviewing the list of folks who have been with us for decades, we think it’s only fitting that we highlight a few special anniversaries. Join us in a fun new series where we’ll touch base with employees who truly feel more like family. First up, Juli Sargent!

Border: What is your current title?

Juli: Sr. Safety & Risk Manager

Border: When were you hired?

Juli: 6/28/1982

Border: What was your title on the date you were hired?

Juli: Crew Member

Border: Why have you stayed with Border for all these years?

Juli: I love this job!

Border: What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned in your time with us?

Juli: Have kindness and compassion throughout your work day.

Border: What would you say to a new hire, or someone starting their career with Border Foods?

Juli: We have so many great opportunities here at Border. If you want to grow with us, the sky’s the limit. 

Border: What makes us different than another QSR?

Juli: Our leaders make decisions based on what is best for the employee

Border: What’s your favorite Taco Bell menu item?

Juli: There are way too many! I love them all, but if have to choose, I’d have to say the Nacho Supreme/Bellgrande 

Border: Name three people at Border (employed or past employees) who helped you where you are today.

Juli: Carol Williams, Jeff Williams, and Jeff Steely — thank you all!

For the last few years, we have embarked on a journey to grow our business from 80 to more than 200 restaurants. Today, we’re excited to share that the strategy we seeded years ago has evolved into what we are today – a leading Taco Bell franchisee with a meaningful purpose: To Make Lives Better.

As founders of this company, we’ve acted as CEO and Chairman together for years. And while we love being in the business, we know it’s time for yet another new Border Foods chapter.

We’re ready to welcome new thinking, a more collaborative approach to leadership, and more accountability across teams. We’re also eager to spend more time in acquisitions, a part of the business that we both feel passionate about. To that end, please join us in congratulating Aaron Engler in his new role as President and CFO of Border Foods.

Aaron has been part of the Border Foods family since he was 15, finding summer work in the restaurants and aiding the Facilities Department. Throughout his college years, Aaron worked with the Technology Department, learning the intricacies of the back of house, POS and office systems. After a few years as Director of Marketing at our sister company, Delaget, Aaron rejoined Border as Director of Corporate Initiatives, leading special projects across teams. Just last year he became Chief Financial and Administrative Officer where under his leadership, the Finance Department successfully implemented NetSuite, a new Enterprise Resource Plan across the company.

In his role as President, Aaron will lead the Leadership Team, where together they’ll manage operations, development, finance and technology. Aaron will report directly to the Board of Directors as we move into a Strategic Advisory role. This scalable approach to leadership allows us to build a bridge across departments, continue to move away from a siloed leadership approach, and make room for new ideas and strategies.

It’s time for the next generation of leadership to begin shaping the Border Foods future.

Congratulations, Aaron! We look forward to watching you grow in this role.