Franchise Sales Manager at 7-Eleven Inc.
Sales manager recruits franchisees, corporate employees for 7-Eleven.
By Warren Duffie
Ron Bernal wore many hats during his military career – infantryman, trainer of drill instructors and diplomat, to name a few. However, it was his tenure as a recruiter that propelled him to success as a franchise sales manager with 7-Eleven Inc.
“Potential franchisees, like military recruits, are seeking a life-changing experience, the key to a better life,” said the 26-year Marine. “7-Eleven wants to provide them with that opportunity, but we have to ensure that we’re a good fit for each other. Like a military recruiter, I have to make sure each candidate has the passion, drive and ability to succeed."
On The Job
Representing 7-Eleven’s Chesapeake Division in Hampton Roads, Va., Bernal works diligently to find committed and enthusiastic franchisees. His duties include processing applications, screening candidates, conducting credit and background checks, reviewing business plans and suggesting revisions, and preparing candidates for personal interviews with market managers. Since being promoted to franchise sales manager in 2006, the former lieutenant colonel has sold more than 30 franchises himself and booked nearly $6 million in franchise fees.
Bernal, 48, usually works from 0730 until 1800. He spends his days answering phone calls and pursing hot leads, meeting with potential franchisees, attending franchise and career fairs, and hosting transition classes at nearby Norfolk Naval Base.
“Sometimes my hours are pretty long and I have to work weekends,” Bernal said. “But 26 years in the Marine Corps accustomed me to long work hours. I’m all about getting the job done and accomplishing the mission.”
The Company
7-Eleven is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience retailing industry. Based in Dallas, Texas, 7-Eleven operates, franchises, or licenses about 7,800 stores in North America – and more than 35,500 stores in 17 countries. In 2007, 7-Eleven stores worldwide generated sales of more than $46.6 billion, and the company was named the #1 Franchise Opportunity for 2008 by Entrepreneur magazine.
The company boasts a variety of career opportunities for military veterans. Employees can work as sales associates, store managers, field consultants and in corporate jobs such as accounting, IT, government affairs and communications.
7-Eleven employees enjoy medical and dental coverage, 401(k) and other profit-sharing, as well as life and disability insurance.
In Uniform
When he graduated from high school in 1978, Bernal dreamed of swinging a golf club, not a rifle.
“I had it in my head that I was going to be a professional golfer,” he said. “Then I met this Marine recruiter who kept calling me and inviting me to stop by his office. I ignored his calls until one day he said he would accept my ‘no’ if I would say it to his face. Well, I went to his office and he really sold me on the benefits of the military. Within a few months, I was on my way to boot camp. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.”
After basic training in San Diego, Bernal attended computer programming school on Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia. After three years – during which he served as a guard at the American Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan – Bernal earned an ROTC scholarship to the University of Southern California. In 1985, he received both his commission and a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
Over the next 19 years, Bernal enjoyed a colorful career. He participated in Operations Restore Hope and Continue Hope in Somalia, Operation Cease Fire in Kuwait and Operation Provide Promise in the Adriatic Sea. Bernal’s last assignment was as the military attaché to the American Embassy in London, where he explained U.S. military policies to foreign dignitaries and coordinated joint military exercises between the American and Royal Marines.
The Transition
Bernal left the Marine Corps in 2004 to spend more time with his family and try his hand at a civilian career. He briefly worked at a casino in Las Vegas, but didn’t like the environment. After reading a G.I. Jobs article profiling a 7-Eleven employee, Bernal decided to check out the company. He was soon hired as a field consultant, helping local 7-Eleven stores follow corporate policies, improve customer services and boost sales. He was promoted to his current position in 2006.
“I knew I wanted to avoid government agencies, security firms and contracting companies,” Bernal said. “They’re popular for transitioning veterans and I wanted to try something completely new.
“My first day on the job was funny,” he continued. “Four months earlier, I was a diplomat and attending fancy events at Buckingham Palace. Now I was helping to clean a bathroom and sweep the parking lot. I have to say that I adjusted to civilian work pretty well. Being a private, a sergeant and an officer prepares you for anything.”
Bernal's Advice
Trust your people skills. “The leadership and communication skills you developed will help you in any
civilian job.”
Embrace your work ethic. “Your experience working long hours during deployments will help you outshine your competition.”
Have a good network.