Thomas McCluskey is a seasoned business leader with over 35 years of experience in restaurant operations, talent development, and strategic business growth. His expertise spans multiple well-known brands, including KFC, Taco Time, and McDonald’s, where he has successfully managed operations, fostered team engagement, and led high-performing businesses. His career is built on a strong foundation of leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to developing people and organizations.

As a district manager of operations for KFC in Central Alberta, Thomas oversaw six locations, driving operational success, enhancing customer experience, and ensuring profitability. His ability to recognize opportunities for improvement and implement strategic solutions contributed to sustained growth and an efficient business model. His leadership at KFC was characterized by his hands-on approach, emphasizing communication, accountability, and teamwork.

Prior to his tenure at KFC, Thomas was the owner and operator of three Taco Time locations in the Red Deer market. Over 11 years, he successfully expanded his franchise presence, navigating the complexities of business ownership, financial management, and workforce development. His ability to balance operational efficiency with customer satisfaction allowed his Taco Time locations to thrive in a competitive industry.

His career began at McDonald’s, where he spent two decades honing his leadership and operational skills. Starting as a staff member and working his way up to restaurant manager, he gained invaluable experience in restaurant management, employee training, and customer service excellence. His tenure at McDonald’s solidified his passion for developing people and instilled a deep understanding of what it takes to build a successful, customer-focused business.

His educational background includes graduating from Hamburger University in Chicago, a prestigious training program dedicated to business administration and restaurant management. He has also completed advanced coursework in operations, equipment management, and food safety, positioning him as an expert in optimizing restaurant efficiency. His commitment to professional growth is evident in his continuous pursuit of knowledge and skill development.

Beyond his professional career, Thomas is deeply engaged in mentorship and leadership development. As a Christian leader, he serves as chairman and co-pastor at his church, where he focuses on guiding individuals toward personal and professional growth. His passion for people extends beyond the workplace, as he actively helps individuals discover their strengths and unlock their full potential.

Thomas is recognized not only for his ability to manage business operations but also for his talent in building strong, cohesive teams. He believes that a thriving business is built on the foundation of its people. His leadership philosophy centers around fostering a culture of trust, integrity, and collaboration. His ability to identify strengths in others and empower them to excel has been a defining trait throughout his career.

His core values—trust, freedom, humor, loyalty, and honesty—are reflected in every aspect of his work. These principles guide his decision-making and leadership approach, ensuring that both employees and businesses benefit from a culture of respect and growth. His belief in leading with authenticity and transparency has earned him the respect of colleagues, employees, and business partners alike.

Thomas is currently seeking board service opportunities where he can leverage his expertise in leadership, operational management, and business strategy to drive organizational success. He is eager to collaborate with organizations that prioritize people development and strategic growth, believing that sustainable success is built on strong leadership and an engaged workforce.

With a career spanning over three decades, Thomas remains passionate about helping businesses and individuals thrive. Whether through mentorship, strategic decision-making, or operational leadership, his commitment to excellence and continuous improvement sets him apart as a valuable asset to any organization.

Character:

Thomas is a values-driven leader who upholds trust, integrity, and respect in every professional and personal endeavor. His dedication to helping others succeed is evident in his mentorship, leadership, and ability to foster growth in individuals and teams.

Knowledge:

With extensive experience in restaurant operations, business management, and leadership development, Thomas possesses a deep understanding of how to optimize performance, drive efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction. His knowledge is backed by formal training and hands-on experience across multiple business ventures.

Strategic:

Thomas excels in identifying opportunities for business growth, implementing process improvements, and developing high-impact strategies. His ability to balance financial success with people-focused leadership has allowed him to build and sustain thriving business operations.

Communication:

A strong communicator and motivator, Thomas is adept at fostering collaboration, delivering impactful presentations, and building meaningful relationships. His ability to articulate vision, inspire teams, and create positive workplace cultures has been a hallmark of his leadership.