MICHAEL MESSLER
Alpharetta, Georgia 30005
***********@*****.***
SUMMARY
A results-oriented, highly accomplished Business Development and Operations Executive, with profit and loss responsibility, as well as demonstrated experience in real estate, brand development, strategic planning, design and construction, logistics, product strategy, team leadership, negotiation, reduction in cost and risk, conflict resolution, and performance metrics. Utilizes a forward-thinking and innovative mind-set to cultivate dependable staff, foster team progression, and fulfill corporate objectives. A dynamic, analytical, and consistent manager, with the proven ability to provide consultation and execute business strategies in order to maximize company revenue and achieve stakeholder satisfaction while partnering and supporting various levels of management company-wide.
EXPERIENCE
HOOTERS OF AUSTRALIA, Sydney, Australia
Chief Operating Officer, 2015-2016
Recruited by Chanticleer Holdings to lead reorganization and development of Hooters Australia franchise which included locations in New South Wales and Queensland. Directed all aspects of restaurant operations, including corporate management development, business plans, strategic marketing efforts, staffing, sales training, rebuilding the supply chain, vendor relationships, manufacturing, distribution logistics, cost of goods reduction, operational excellence, facility management, remodels, capital planning and full profit and loss responsibility.
HOOTERS OF AMERICA, Atlanta, Georgia
Business Development Manager, 2010-2014
Oversaw global franchise responsibilities for groups in Australia, Asia-Pacific, and North America. Responsible for qualifying and closing new business development opportunities as well as assisting existing franchisees with maintaining and driving revenue. Directed strategic alignment and communication of company’s visions, plans, and initiatives for brand synergy. Conducted brand standard audits to ensure franchisee compliance with company’s policies, practices, and procedures. Evaluated and consulted franchisees on all aspects of company’s brand in development areas, site selection, construction, training, operational execution, marketing, profit and loss, reviews, and conceptual formality.
Directed development, operations training and field support for franchisees in 6 countries.
Organized ongoing certification of franchise training stores.
Coordinated with franchisees to ensure achievement of development plans and timeline goals.
Directed company training teams at international and domestic new store openings.
Developed long-term strategic Business Plans for each franchisee and potential developing markets.
Advised franchisees regarding brand reimage program, timelines and budgets.
Served on Executive Leadership Team in 2013 and 2014.
PUBLIC STORAGE, Atlanta, Georgia
Regional Vice President, 2008-2010
Managed profit and loss responsibilities for $85,000,000 region comprised of 60 properties in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. Implemented and executed strategic vision plans and corporate initiatives. Managed the performance of 7 direct reports and over 150 indirect staff in multiple states.
Assessed, initiated, and instituted best-priority labor practices, which resulted in a 3% reduction in payroll expenses.
Reduced controllable expenses by 2.7%, which had a direct impact on profitability for the organization.
Focused on developing the consistency of the sales culture, including developing teams, enhancing performance, and increasing productivity by 5%.
Achieved 100% pass rate on internal audits of all 60 facilities in the region.
Senior District Manager, 2007
Oversaw profit and loss responsibilities for $45,000,000 area comprised of 3 districts and 31 properties.
Managed 3 direct reports and 75 indirect employees.
Implemented corporate directives and initiated programs to achieve optimized operations.
Selected by executive leadership to lead the Divisional Safety Committee, resulting in a 20% reduction in lost- time injuries and a significant reduction in workers’ compensation claims.
Achieved 100% pass rate on internal audits of all 31 facilities in the market.
District Manager, 2004-2006
Managed 11 property portfolio, generating $15,000,000 in revenue annually. Complete ownership of district profit and loss, including oversight of all asset management and capital improvements. Integrated and transitioned acquired properties. Audited district to ensure compliance with company standards and successful completion of sales, process, safety, and customer service objectives.
Hired, motivated, and trained staff to achieve district goals and objectives, including safety compliance and training.
Recognized as District Manager of the Year (2006), Divisional winner for Operational Excellence (2005, 2006), and President’s Circle (2005).
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
TOTAL ENTERTAI NMENT – BAILEY’S SMOKEHOUSE & TAVERN, Atlanta, Georgia, Operating Partner, Training General Manager, 2000-2004. Oversaw all aspects of operations for restaurant. Implemented market growth initiatives and operational performance improvements. Recognized as number-one store of period five times in 2002. Named People Developer of the Year in 2002. Awarded Highest Net Sales Increase for 2001.
QUALITY DINING – GRADY’S AMERICAN GRILL, Texas, Tennessee, Ohio and Georgia, Training General Manager, 1997-2000. Led 60 staff members to attain company standards and provided exceptional customer service. Trained 30 Operations Managers. Directed all aspects of management for business. Developed and implemented strategies to increase market share, customer base, and profitability.
OAKMONT INC., HOOTERS OF AMERICA, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Fairfax, Virginia, Regional Manager, 1995-1997. Responsible for multi-unit operations in Oklahoma and Virginia Regions. Coordinated and directed growth and profitability in both markets. Managed and motivated diverse team of over 200 employees.
PENNINGTON'S, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Owner, Operator, 1986-1995. Operated three-unit, 1950’s themed restaurant concept with revenues of over $5,000,000 annually.
EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA, Norman, Oklahoma