Get to know Richard Hinson, Chief Executive of Retail Food Group Australia
Hinson says his focus is on improving the support, value, and services RFG provides to its franchisees, as well as its business’ performance.
QSR Media: What makes you excited about your position?
I am excited to have the opportunity to work with fantastic franchise brands and the talented group of passionate professionals at the Retail Food Group. I look forward to leveraging my past experience to help with the transitional journey that the Retail Food Group has already embarked on. I am passionate about partnering with small family businesses, our franchisees, to assist them to achieve their financial goals whilst remaining the “centre” of their local communities. RFG has over 1,000 franchisees around Australia who in turn employ a broader network of more than 15,000 employees. They make a huge contribution to their local communities and economies. I strongly believe that Australians want to support vibrant and dynamic business owners and brands, ensuring a bright future and ongoing employment opportunities for generations to follow.
QSR Media: What are your key business philosophies?
(a) Clear communication leads to stronger communities, a mutual understanding and a singular focus on achievement and accountability.
(b) Teamwork is essential - collectively, we can all achieve more.
(c) There is only one boss…The Customer!
QSR Media: What three goals are you focused on?
(a) Gaining a solid understanding of the RFG business; its systems and its customer and consumer base.
(b) Looking to identify opportunities to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the RFG Australia team, particularly our franchisees.
(c) Working with the RFG leadership team to further improve the sustainability and attractiveness of the RFG brand systems.
QSR Media: What long-term changes are you planning on?
Initially, my focus will be to drive and implement the RFG domestic retail strategy; which is focussed on improving the support, value and services we provide our franchisees, whilst working with other key stakeholders to identify further opportunities to improve the business’s performance and raise its community/corporate profile.
QSR Media: What previous positions have prepared you for this one and how?
I have held several senior positions over the past 7 years focused on the sustainability and success of small to medium family owned retail businesses.