I worked for KFC corporation and Tom was one of the franchise operators that I supported as his business coach, as we were called. I’ll never forget get my first meeting with Tom as we met at a table in his KFC dining room. He barely said a word and looked at me like he wanted to strangle me, just for being a “KFC Corporate person”. In other words, Tom was one tough customer! I’d like to think that I was different from most corporate folks he met in the past that left him with what felt like anger, distaste & resentment, but during that initial meeting I could feel it all through his eyes & expression. I worked with Tom for about 5 or 6 years, and somewhere along the way I think he believed I was different too, and he gave me a chance to have a voice and to be part of his conversation & personal family business. While working with Tom, I found a very caring guy, a man who cared about his family & his KFC family team. He often called me when he needed help with a distributor or inspection, and I appreciated his trust in me. In the end of our time working together, I knew he was planning to exit the KFC business, and I suspected I’d be leaving as well. Like I started with, I’ll always remember Tom for that initial meeting, but I’ll cherish his kindness & humor forever (When he would get on a roll, I’d die laughing and tell him that he reminded me of Larry the Canle Guy…He could be that funny). I’m grateful for knowing Tom I’m happy that he had the opportunity to spend a little time with his family & friends before departing. I send my thoughts & prayers to his loved ones.
God Bless!
Russ
