Miami-educated Jose Tomas has spent a career managing people. First with Publix, then Ryder Systems and most recently Miami-based Burger King.
He’s still heading human resources for Burger King, but its new owner Brazil-based 3G Capital has also tasked him with overseeing the country’s operations in Latin America.
3G purchased the fast food giant in September for about $3.3 billion and is in the midst of trying to stage a turnaround in North America, where it’s seen slumping sales.
Down South, however, the story is a bit different.
“In Latin America, in Europe, Middle East and Africa and Asia Pacific it's really about growing our same-store sales and growing our net restaurant count,” Mr. Tomas said.
Burger King currently operates in 28 countries with 1,145 restaurants across Latin America and the Caribbean.
It’s largest market at the moment is Mexico, but it’s seeing opportunities in Brazil, Chile and Argentina.
Mr. Tomas discussed life at Burger King under new management, and what he’s working on to expand its presence in Latin America at one of its Miami restaurants with Miami Today staff writer Zachary Fagenson.