I have held the position of Vice President of Operations for Dortch Enterprises, LLC since 1993. While here, I have been an integral part of the executive management team, responsible for the operations of Subway, Qdoba Mexican Grill, Halo Burger, and most recently, 45 Taco Bell locations in Southeast Michigan. I was heavily involved in the acquisition of Qdoba in 2001, growing that brand to 14 locations before selling in 2008. I also took over operations for Halo Burger in January 2014 until it was sold in December 2015. During these various brand acquisitions and sales, I was still responsible for all the Dortch Enterprises Subway locations, which at their peak, totaled 69 shops. In May 2017, Dortch Enterprises (Great Lakes Taco) purchased 21 Taco Bell restaurants from Taco Bell Corporate, and I am fully invested in this brand. In five years, I’ve overseen the development of 21 new locations, as well as the acquisition of three more already operating locations. Five more Taco Bell locations will be built in 2025, putting us at 50 locations in total.
The growth at Dortch Enterprises has led to an increasing amount of responsibility. Between the existing Subway and Taco Bell locations, we employ over 900 people. Currently, I oversee two Market Coaches, eight Area Coaches and the Human Resources Department. I believe I am thorough communicator and always make myself available to my team, not only as their go-to person for issues or guidance, but also as a coach to develop them into effective leaders. I am a huge proponent of growth and self-actualization.
Beginning in October 2017, I served as the Vice President on the Board of Directors for the Greater Heights Academy in Flint, Michigan. I am lucky enough to have been voted President as of June 2019. Previously, I was the Vice President on the Board of Directors for Holly Academy from May 2007 to August 2014. Holly Academy was a top five performing charter school in the state of Michigan. I am an Ohio native; I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education, specializing in Economics, History and Political Science from Youngstown State University. Upon moving to Michigan, I met my wife of 29 years, Jodi, and together we have four children and four grandchildren. We are very active in our church and volunteer with 400 teens who make up our church youth group. I am also an avid golfer and love playing volleyball and basketball when I have the time.
