By: Carla Lida NFL Player Engagement
Faculty from The Ross School of Business mentored participants throughout the weekend as they experienced off-site visits to local franchises, collaborated on group work presentations, & listened to panelists discuss the franchisee experience. Stephen Ross’s opening Q&A session set the tone for the remainder of the boot camp, participants were truly amazed by his success. Scott DeRue & Professor Len Middleton both presented on the structure of a franchise business plan.
Day 2 & 3 took place off site at 7 Eleven, Jersey Mike’s, Papa John’s & Title Boxing Club. Participants experienced a practical learning experience as they met with franchisees & management staff to inquire about a day in the life of a franchisee. A few take homes from the site visits included "be a people person", "It takes time to reach success", and lastly "recruit a trustworthy staff."
Following these visits, participants were able to engage with panelists who have first-hand experience as both an NFL athlete & franchisee: Michael Stone, 7 year NFL Veteran & Founder of PAFI, Kim Crowell & Angelo Crowell, 7 year NFL Veteran Jersey Mike’s Franchisee, Van Jakes, 7 year NFL Veteran & McDonald’s Franchisee, and Tim Biakabutuka, 6 year NFL Veteran & Bojangels Franchisee lead a panel on the transition from Athlete to Franchisee & the steps they took to reach success. The recurring theme throughout the panel focused on "the importance of finding a good mentor", "have a passion for the franchise", and "be willing to learn."
Tom Andrews, 3 year NFL Veteran & Senior Director of Development at Papa John’s, shared his journey & corporate opportunities within the franchising business. Over the years, Tom’s experience with Papa John’s has grown internationally, he encouraged participants to "do their research before investing in a franchise."
Professor Paula Caproni’s presentation was most applicable to the recurring theme of the weekend, "find a great team." She provided instruction on the components for building a productive management team. Participants assessed their own personal style of management through use of a Personal Management Style Survey. She urged participants to develop a management style that incorporates a diverse set of qualities. Participants enjoyed sharing their own experiences as a leader and/or manager.
Erica Farage, director at IFA, moderated a panel of franchisors, which provided a different perspective on franchising. Shane Evans of Massage Heights, Don Fox of Firehouse Subs, and John Rotche founder of Title Boxing shared some best practices for future franchisees and what they look for in potential franchisee partnerships. Group projects took place during the final day of boot camp. Participants created power point presentations based on potential franchisee investments.
This year’s Franchising Boot Camp was a major hit, the professors made the experience exciting, interactive, & relatable. Participants not only gained extensive knowledge but also had the opportunity to build their network with franchising professionals.
See link below for an additional story on this year's NFLPE Franchising Boot Camp.
http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/From-franchise-players-to-franchisees/038cc1f0-fc02-4e41-ae48-a1da641bbdb5