Karen, Restaurant General Manager for #001961, joined Taco Bell at 16 when a friend from marching band told her to apply. That decision turned into a 32-year journey.
“At that time, I was attending community college to earn a degree in Early Childhood Education while also working at a hospital daycare. There was a point where I was balancing working in a school while also working at Taco Bell during the school year and full-time in the summers. Then, my General Manager at the time approached me and said, ‘Anytime you want to be an AGM, let me know, I have a spot for you.’ I ended up transitioning to the role soon after.”
Her career continued to grow as she stepped into a Training Manager role. She had always wanted to be a teacher, and although she never finished her teaching degree, she realized she was teaching every day through food safety, life skills, and mentoring young Team Members.
“I was a Market Training Manager for about three years, then transitioned into a role supporting 220 stores across Michigan with food safety audits, which has since evolved under a different program name. After that, I was promoted to Area Coach and served for five and a half years before stepping down to be a stay-at-home mom. But I quickly found myself back at Taco Bell as a Restaurant General Manager.”
So, why’d she come back?
“It’s truly because of the people and how every day is different with new customers, new challenges, and a constantly evolving menu. Over the years, I’ve taken part in different trainings and attended major company events, including visits to the Restaurant Support Center, Annual Operation Planning meeting, and Taco Bell’s 60th anniversary. One of the most memorable experiences for me was winning a trip to the Kentucky Derby. All of these experiences, along with the role itself, are what have made me stay for so long. Even my father was always so proud to tell others that his daughter worked there.”
Throughout her career, she has stayed focused on growth. both her own and others - but she believes that requires a few key things.
“Success starts with being self-motivated, learning everything about the brand, communicating well, staying positive, and following routines. It’s also important to be able to adapt to change. I love being able to help my teams grow, encouraging Team Members to take advantage of our benefits and really grow with Taco Bell.”
But above all, she never loses sight of the customer.
“I remember two regulars, Renee and Bill, who came in every day. When the pandemic happened, they would hold up signs outside saying they missed the team. The restaurant once set up a table with linen tablecloths for their anniversary. Moments like those are what make the work meaningful.”
For Karen, Taco Bell has always been more than quick service; it’s a place where people, growth, and connection come together.