As Chief Operating Officer – Franchising of Grease Monkey International & SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service, Ralph Yarusso’s job is to boost franchise growth, a multi-faceted task “since driving franchise growth includes unit economics, system wide sales, franchise outlets and corporate EBITDA”.
How long have been in this role?
Just a few months, I held the position of SVP of Operations and Business Development for 4+ years prior.
What drew you to the auto industry?
A chance to become an entrepreneur. After my commitment in the United States Air Force, I was able to obtain my rating with the FAA and was employed at LaGuardia Airport working in Flight Control. During that time, I started researching franchise opportunities. I was able to utilize my veteran benefits (VetFran) to open my first Meineke Discount Muffler shop with my father-in-law a few years later. I really wasn’t a mechanic and I had no experience in running a business; however, the beauty of franchising and following a successful proven system enabled me to pursue my passion of business ownership. In four years I was the #1 volume store in their chain and eventually became a multi-unit operator with a total of 15 stores throughout my 23 year career with them.
How did you come to work in franchising?
After I sold my franchises, I was actually recruited by my franchisor six months later to work in Franchise Development. I eventually moved over to Operations where I became COO for Meineke Car Care Centers for the western U.S.
How’s business for your brands just now?
Amazing! We have been on an incredible trajectory of growth in all areas. Franchised units, customers, sales, ticket average and so on. We have also grown abroad with over 100 centers in Mexico, new master franchise licenses awarded in Saudi Arabia and Columbia and also China.
What are the ingredients for successful brand development?
In our case, I truly believe it’s our experience. Many of our senior management team members have been franchisees in our space so we understand the rigors that franchisees face daily. We have the experience to lead with franchisee buy-in since we have been in their shoes.
What have been your proudest moments?
Personally, raising six children, all of whom have graduated from college and have become incredible adults. I’m also looking forward to celebrating my 35th wedding anniversary September 25th. Professionally, serving in the USAF, being named as the IFA Franchisee of the Year and being named COO – Franchising at Grease Monkey as a result of our success we’ve enjoyed these past four years.
What skills did your time with the Air Force equip you with?
I was on a flight crew with over 3000 hours on a C141 Starlifter. Being in that role afforded me a leadership role early in my career. Following systems and understanding each crew member’s roles and responsibility has transitioned me well into the corporate world.
What affords you most satisfaction about your work?
Frankly, franchisee success. When a franchisee has invested in our brands they have invested in us. Seeing them succeed and accomplish their goals and aspirations is by far the most rewarding aspect of franchising.
What aspect of your work offers the greatest challenges?
Time. We are so incredibly busy that time has become a valuable aspect of my daily life. The greatest challenge is making time for all of the things I want to do.
How do you think would other people describe you?
Passionate, loyal, experienced, caring.
What’s the next step in your career?
My next step is obvious, CEO/President. But I am still learning and am fortunate to have a terrific mentor currently in that role in John Adams. He has been instrumental in my career growth and has invested heavily in my education toward that next step!
How do you relax?
Vacations out of the country without internet is the only way. I enjoy the hot tub every night while I am home in Colorado. I stopped skiing after a bad knee injury years ago, so now I am a competitive hot tubber. Of course it goes without saying, a good glass of Cabernet is a must!
