
Zahid Merchant, Victorian Regional Manager of Noodle Box
On strong values, building strong working relationships and the difference great attitude makes.
QSR MEDIA: What makes you excited about your position?
Zahid Merchant: I’m excited to work with such a diverse and established franchise and immerse myself within the great culture and strong values that Noodle Box is built on. With my vast experience in finance and operations, I’m looking forward to help the franchise achieve its operational and financial goals.
QSR MEDIA: What 3 goals are you focused on?
Merchant: 1 Building a good strong working relationship with my franchisee partners
2 Assisting franchisee partners to grow their business.
3 Assisting my franchisee partners to better understand their business drivers and manage a profitable business.
QSR MEDIA: What are the long- term changes you are planning on?
Merchant: I would like to be in a position where I can assist the company with its growth plans both nationally and internationally. I would really like to see the company expand offshore and with 10 years of international operations experience, I am well positioned to help the company achieve this.
QSR MEDIA: What are your key business philosophies?
Merchant: Product – products offered should be appealing and of good quality and value for money
Guest service – Superior guest services, provided by a great attitude, honesty and integrity leads to company success.
Profits – Businesses should be well placed to help achieve profits for the franchisee partners, the shareholders and employees. This happens when the businesses financial and human resources are managed effectively and efficiently, having good products and services in place.
QSR MEDIA: What previous position prepared you for this and how?
Merchant: I’ve had over 15 years of experience in corporate financial and retail businesses. Additionally, my experience with franchise’s like Muffin Break and Pie Face have allowed to me to develop a strong understanding of franchise structures, operations and products.