Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt McMahon.
Hi Matt, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My restaurant career started in Madison heights Michigan at Steak & ALe 1975. I left S&A in 1980 to start up a new company that at the time had 4 locations in in Midwest called CHI-CHI’s we had the rights to 7 states open our first store in Hampton VA… We were able to develop 32 locations by 1984, and we were bought back by the parent company. 1985 I became VP of operations, I had the opportunity to open and operate locations from NY city to FL, and all over the Midwest .IN 1993 I had the opportunity to open another new and exciting franchise in AZ and NM Outback Steakhouse. I moved from the east coast to AZ. opened 24 stores in 8 yrs. I decided to retire in 2013 after 20 yrs with OB. I was always fascinated with Startup concepts, I consulted to smaller enterprises 5 yrs.In 2018 I was asked to help a great friend who had invented a incredible machine for me while I was at Outback in 2011, that was badly needed in the restaurant industry, and even more pressing at Outback across the country.
My food techs worked with Conrad for over a year perfecting the perfect machine to filter cooking oil and have it fully removed all the dangerous materials restaurant operators add, and the ones they don’t realize are created from the food they cook. (Much more details will share in person.) 2012 the machine was ready to put to test I used it at two of my OBs first. the machine worked beyond incredible solving my goals of safety, and food quality. after 2 months in use to our surprise we realized we also reduced our oil usage by over 50%..I purchased units for all my stores. I joined Conrad as President of his company in 2018, we have been able to grow immensely over the last 8 yrs. Biggest personal accomplishment ,Thanks to the founders of Outback Chris, Bob, Tim, In AZ we were able to create a great event for charities in AZ called Beauty of Bonzer, Ausie meaning (Awesome party) for many years we held huge concerts at the facility where the Suns play. we raised huge dollars to help out others in need. As a hobby my wife and I buy and upgrade homes while living in them 4-7 yrs and then sell. My other hobbies are hiking with my two Aussies pups and playing pickle ball. Lots of side stories but this should be enough for now.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Dollars for expansion always challenge, much easier now then the earlier days. Making sure our people/employees are taking care of at all levels personal and professional.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Best part of having a business to operate, is coaching others to lead and grow, building tenure in your employee ranks is paramount to success in any business.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I have been very fortunate, to have worked with some great leaders in the restaurant industry, Norman Brinker, Hal Smith, Chris Sullivan, Bob Basham, Tim Gannon. Now in a manufacturing with Conrad Canter.
All of them had the ability to guide me enough and others to grow our skills in leadership. I believe I have been able to pass that on has well.
Pricing:
- Zeco reduces oil usage 30-50%
Contact Info:
- Email: mmcmahon@skoilsales.com
