Brian has an MBA from Indiana University and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management from Purdue University. He first became involved with Ponderosa in 1991 as controller of CMR Partners later adding marketing to his responsibilities and then advancing to Vice President of Finance & Marketing. He has served as President of CMR Partners since 2002.

What professional skills do you find to be most helpful in operating a successful Ponderosa?

I think the key to a successful operation is the ability to stay organized while resolving the wide variety of challenges you face every day. I consider my primary role to be a facilitator and to encourage my staff be resourceful when addressing daily operational issues. Steakhouse managers have a challenging job, but if I provide them with the tools, systems and the right information they can be more successful. Of course, that requires two-way communication, so I really have to listen to capture their best ideas and share them with the team so we can all benefit.

What are the strengths of the Ponderosa brand?

Ponderosa is a unique concept. We offer delicious, cooked-to-order main courses at very reasonable prices. We are not just a buffet restaurant, and as a meal or added to your main course, the buffet is an incredible value. We work hard every day to serve the best quality, greatest tasting food and to provide a level of service that goes beyond what most guests would expect to receive in a family restaurant.

What do you enjoy the most about being a franchisee?

I am extremely proud of what our people have accomplished over the years, some of whom have been with the brand for over 32 years. Over the years they have established relationships with our guests and know them and their families by name. I’ve even seen guests bring presents to our team members at Christmas, recommend certain team members for awards, and go out of their way to compliment our teams.

Tell us about the support you receive from HomeStyle Dining.

Franchise Business Consultants are excellent representatives of the company and really understand the fundamentals of the business. They serve as mentors and help develop our teams in many ways. We truly appreciate their leadership and see them as a key part of our team. In addition, our Marketing Director is an expert in her field, and provides valuable feedback, not just about marketing, but to also help us in understanding how to see things from the guest’s perspective. Most of all, franchisees today have more access to the company leadership team and we are more involved with the direction and development of the brand.