GM OF THE YEAR 1999- AWARD NAMED AFTER ME IN PERPETUITY BY FOUNDER
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Robert Norman
PDQ FOOD SERVICES INC
West Lafayette,IN
1
Language
35
years of professional experience
Results-driven professional with extensive experience in managing multi-location operations. Skilled in developing strategic initiatives, fostering vendor relationships, and enhancing brand visibility to drive customer engagement and operational excellence.
Work History
OWNER
1 Month
BBN SUBS HOLDINGS LLC | 07.2026 - Current
Developed and implemented operational processes to optimize efficiency and organization in operations.
Established vendor relationships to optimize supply chain management.
Developed and implemented operational processes for efficient sandwich production.
Trained staff on food safety practices and customer service standards.
OWNER
4 Years
PDQ FOOD SERVICES INC | 08.2022 - Current
Developed and implemented operational processes for efficient and organized operations.
Coordinated with Jimmy John's Corporate to facilitate certification of one of the company stores as a Regional Certification Training location
Developed and implemented operational processes for efficient sandwich production.
Monitored customer feedback to improve menu offerings and service quality.
Monitored customer feedback to improve service quality.
Coordinated with accountant to improve P&L Reporting accuracy and timeliness
Implemented profit-sharing bonus plan and managed the structure and payouts
Improved operations and Brand Standard compliance in 3 existing locations, and opened 2 new locations with Brand Standard operational compliance
NEW STORE AND NEW FRANCHISEE CONSULTANT
3 Years 7 Months
Inspire Brands | 01.2019 - 08.2022
Analyzed sales data to identify trends, driving strategic marketing initiatives across locations.
Implemented inventory control systems to minimize waste and optimize product availability.
Developed training programs for staff to improve performance and maintain brand standards.
Led operational management to enhance customer satisfaction and streamline service delivery.
Coached New Franchisees on the process of opening new stores
Served as FBC (Business Coach) for the first 6 months of business for franchisees
CEO OF STRATEGIC OPERATIONS
12 Years
Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches | 01.2007 - 01.2019
Developed strategic growth initiatives to expand market presence and enhance brand visibility.
Fostered collaborative relationships with franchise owners to drive profitability and operational excellence.
Led operations to streamline supply chain processes, improving efficiency across multiple locations.
Implemented new training programs to elevate employee performance and customer service standards.
Worked with struggling franchisees to turn around operations in their stores to improve operations to Brand Standard, as well as overall profitability
Worked with franchisees trying to grow from 1 store to multiple - showing how to develop infrastructure
DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE OPERATIONS
4 Years
Jimmy John's Enterprises | 10.2003 - 10.2007
Led cross-functional teams in implementing strategic initiatives aligned with corporate objectives.
Streamlined operational processes, enhancing efficiency across multiple departments.
Developed and maintained standard operating procedures to improve workflow consistency.
Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for operational improvement and cost reduction.
Turned around operations in 16 stores, while also opening 4 additional corporate units during this time period.
AREA MANAGER- LAFAYETTE, IN MARKET
4 Years 9 Months
JIMMY JOHN'S ENTERPRISES | 01.1999 - 10.2003
Led operational strategy to optimize store performance and enhance customer satisfaction across multiple locations.
Implemented training programs for staff, improving service efficiency and reducing employee turnover rates.
Analyzed sales data to identify trends and adjust inventory management for peak demand periods.
Developed and executed marketing initiatives to increase brand awareness and drive local store traffic.
Developed 2 managers to win GM of the Year award
GENERAL MANAGER
4 Years
JIMMY JOHN'S ENTERPRISES | 01.1995 - 01.1999
Implemented strategic initiatives to drive sales growth and improve customer satisfaction.
Directed daily operations to enhance efficiency and maintain high-quality service standards.
Mentored and developed management team to foster leadership skills and operational excellence.
Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for process improvement and cost reduction.
Turned around 2 stores in Champaign, IL
Turned around 1 store in West Lafayette, IN market prior to promotion to Area Manager
Recognized as initial GM of the Year by the founder- Jimmy John Liautaud. Award was named the Norman Award and was awarded for next 20 years prior to Jimmy selling the company to Inspire Brands. Award is now back and is still named the Norman Award.
This award led to up to 100 GM of the Year awards awarded to top Franchise Operators as well.
ASSISTANT MANAGER
2 Months
JIMMY JOHN'S ENTERPRISES | 11.1995 - 01.1996
Implemented training programs to enhance team performance and improve customer service standards.
Supported daily operations by coordinating staff schedules and delegating tasks effectively.
Monitored inventory levels, ensuring timely replenishment and optimal stock management.
Analyzed sales data to identify trends, optimizing product offerings for increased revenue potential.
MANAGER
2 Years 10 Months
Domino's Pizza | 01.1993 - 11.1995
Streamlined order fulfillment processes, reducing delivery times and increasing customer satisfaction.
Implemented inventory management strategies to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
Developed staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours and improve efficiency.
Led training programs to enhance team performance and service quality.
DELIVERY DRIVER
1 Year 5 Months
Domino's Pizza | 08.1991 - 01.1993
Delivered orders efficiently, ensuring timely arrival and customer satisfaction.
Navigated local routes to optimize delivery times and reduce fuel consumption.
Maintained accurate records of deliveries and payments for financial accountability.
Trained new drivers on operational procedures and safety standards.
Education
High School Diploma
EISENHOWER HIGH SCHO0L | Decatur, IL
Bachelor of Science - LEISURE STUDIES
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | 06-1994
Skills
P&L management
Small business operations
Operational Compliance
Multi-Location Management
P&L management
Operational efficiency
Networking
Verbal and written communication
Microsoft Excel
Google Drive
OneDrive
GM OF THE YEAR 1999- AWARD NAMED AFTER ME IN PERPETUITY BY FOUNDER
AWARDED FOR GM ACHIEVING TOP PERFORMANCE METRICS OF SALES GROWTH, TRANSACTION GROWTH, VARIABLE COST CONTROL IMPROVEMENT YEAR-OVER-YEAR, AND TEAM DEVELOPMENT.
JIMMY JOHN CREATED THIS AWARD AND NAMED IT AFTER ME AS THE "NORMAN GM OF THE YEAR AWARD".
THIS WAS AWARDED ANNUALLY FOR NEXT 20 YEARS UNTIL JIMMY SOLD TO INSPIRE BRANDS.
IT WAS BROUGHT BACK IN 2025 BY CORPORATE TEAM AND KEPT SAME NAME.
ADDITIONALLY, THIS AWARD LED TO OVER 100 FRANCHISE GM OF THE YEAR RECIPIENTS OVER THE YEARS- AS THIS BECAME A NOTABLE AWARD IN THE INDUSTRY