on wheels that comes to my car park every week. With a lack of funding in that sector, with a lot of youth clubs closed, it was great to be able to have that initiative.
How has McDonald’s been an integral part of your route into business as a female entrepreneur? For McDonald's, it doesn't matter what your background is, what your work experience is, who you are, they want to partner with the right person. I do, however, think it is important to touch on the fact that I am a female franchisee, I hope we encourage other women to enter the franchising space. One of the benefits of being your own boss is that you can manage your time. I have a one-year-old daughter and I am still able to run my business… I think that would be much more challenging if I was in a corporate career. I’d love to inspire other women to take that leap, to read this and think: “Actually, you know what – if she can do it, so can I.” Yes, I’m a mum, a wife, but I've also got my own 24-hour
“We're very ambitious and we're also incredibly hardworking people – all of us franchisees share those qualities”
restaurant business and, whilst it's a juggle, I wouldn't change it for the world!
Who are your biggest supporters? There's a saying “behind every great man is a greater woman” – for me it's the reverse! I'm a strong feminist, and in our case, it's literally my husband, he is so supportive. My parents and grandparents, too. My father and grandfather have always been my biggest supporters and were super proud that I was coming here today. They always believed that I would succeed and my father actually came along with me to The National Franchise Exhibition.
Any words of advice for others inspired by your story? I've met franchisees from many different backgrounds, so it’s fair to say you can have zero experience in retail, food & drink or hospitality, and it really doesn't matter. Because for McDonald’s it's about finding someone who's the right fit for the brand, that they can partner with, who they know is going to bring those values to life. My advice is: do your research, make
sure your values align with McDonald's, because it’s a long-term partnership. But if you're enthusiastic about developing people, about community, and you’re passionate and curious about business and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, then you could be the right fit. So my advice is – take a risk! I gave up a very good career in the middle of a global pandemic and I've never looked back. It's the best decision I've ever made! I love what I do. I love having my team come on that journey with me, alongside the community work we do. That's what gets me out of bed every day!
*The testimonials in this article refl ect the personal experiences and opinions of the franchisees featured. Individual experiences of owning and operating a McDonald's franchise may vary 19
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