Paul G. Tuennerman — Executive Operations Leader

Executive Operator for High‑Growth & Turnaround Brands

Seasoned multi‑unit operations executive with 40+ years in fast‑casual, franchising, and food‑service. Proven record of scaling brands, operational turnarounds, and international expansion.

Multi‑Unit Ops P&L Leadership Franchise Growth International Expansion Operational Turnarounds Process Optimization

Executive Summary

Seasoned and successful multi‑unit operations executive with 40+ years of leadership across fast‑casual, franchising, and food‑service. Proven record of scaling brands, driving operational turnarounds, and launching international markets. Blends frontline operational discipline with strategic acumen in development, governance, and organizational transformation—ready to serve as Chief Operations Officer.

Core Competencies

Multi‑Unit Operations P&L Leadership Franchise & Non‑Traditional Growth Operational Turnarounds International Expansion Process Optimization & SOPs Cross‑Functional Leadership Change Management Culture Building Customer Experience Excellence

Recent Roles

Sticky’s Finger Joint — EVP · Board Member · Investor (2021–2024)

Led brand repositioning and operations reset to stabilize unit economics and elevate guest experience during a pivotal turnaround phase.
Implemented SOPs, training programs, and performance dashboards; streamlined labor deployment and COGs controls across units.
Built a scalable opening playbook for new‑market entry and guided board‑level decisions on capital allocation and franchising.

Dat Dog Enterprises — Chief Executive Officer (2018–2020)

Orchestrated cultural and operational turnaround; rebuilt senior leadership team to drive accountability and brand‑defining hospitality.
Centralized accounting and performance reporting, enabling near‑real‑time KPI visibility and stronger unit economics.
Standardized training and operational materials to ensure consistent execution and guest experience across locations.

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers — SVP, Business Development (2008–2016)

Drove expansion from 7 to 21 states and launched the brand in the Middle East with cross‑functional market‑entry leadership.
Partnered with 11 franchisees to grow from 13 to 83 restaurants, contributing ~$224M in 2016 revenue.
Built non‑traditional growth channels across universities, airports, casinos, stadiums, and retail centers.