In the latest episode of Sandy Springs Business Radio, host Ramzi Daklouche sits down with Kathy Gosser, a leading authority in franchise management and the Director of the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville. With an impressive 35-year career at Yum! Brands—the parent company of KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut—Kathy shares her journey from corporate leadership to academia and offers invaluable insights into the dynamic world of franchising.
The Journey from Corporate Leadership to Academia
After retiring from Yum! Brands in 2019, Kathy transitioned seamlessly into academia, leveraging her extensive experience in franchising and organizational leadership. At the University of Louisville, she co-created and now leads the Franchise Management Certificates programs, which equip students and professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the franchise industry. These programs are offered at both undergraduate and graduate levels and include an Executive Education version, which is a cornerstone of the International Franchise Association’s Certified Franchise Executive credential.
In addition to her work in franchise education, Kathy teaches undergraduate courses in management and entrepreneurship, shaping the next generation of leaders in business.
Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Franchising
In her conversation with Ramzi, Kathy dives into the unique opportunities franchising offers for aspiring business owners, highlighting its potential as a proven business model. However, she underscores the importance of due diligence, stressing that success in franchising requires careful research, financial planning, and a deep understanding of the industry.
She also dispels common misconceptions about franchising, noting that it is not a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, franchising offers diverse career paths and opportunities for those willing to invest time and effort into understanding its complexities.
Kathy Gosser’s Leadership Legacy at Yum! Brands
During her tenure at Yum! Brands, Kathy held pivotal roles that shaped the company’s global success. She led initiatives in customer satisfaction, team member engagement, and training for over 4,200 restaurants in the U.S. She also played a critical role in global operations for Yum’s brands, driving excellence across franchises worldwide.
Her dedication extended to community impact, serving as Board Chair of the KFC Foundation, a nonprofit funded by franchisees to support employees and their families.
A Wealth of Knowledge for Aspiring Franchisees
With her deep well of experience, Kathy offers a unique perspective on franchising, blending corporate insight with academic rigor. Whether you’re an aspiring franchisee, a seasoned business owner, or someone curious about the franchise industry, this episode of Sandy Springs Business Radio is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.
Tune in to learn from one of the industry’s most accomplished leaders and discover how franchising could be the next big step in your entrepreneurial journey!