What originally brought you to Taco Bell Corporate all those years ago?
“At the time, I had been working on my master’s degree but had to drop out due to an illness. I was trying to figure out my next move and what I wanted to do professionally, and that’s when I started looking for a job. I actually started at a subsidiary of Pepsi Co., and later moved to Taco Bell in the Control function.”
Do you remember your first role and what your first few weeks were like?
“My first role focused on lease accounting, where I worked closely with the legal team and learned the intricacies of how leases were structured. From there, I moved to Taco Bell International to support finance and accounting for Canada. I later transitioned into capital accounting and financial systems before taking a turn into business planning through a field finance role. I eventually moved into special projects, where I helped standardize processes across KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell, which gave me valuable relationships across Yum! Brands and insight into each brand’s culture. After that, I moved into FP&A (Financial Planning & Analysis), where I’ve been ever since, managing various line items and responsibilities over the years.”
What was Taco Bell like back then compared to today?
“A lot has changed. For one thing, the dress code was very different as everyone wore suits and jeans were completely forbidden because they were considered unprofessional. It eventually shifted to business casual. We also worked full days on Fridays. Eventually the company piloted new ways of working that led to the schedule of half-day Fridays we have today.”
Is there a project or initiative you’re especially proud of?
“One project I’m especially proud of is helping implement a financial system Yum! Brands still uses today. What makes me proud is the longevity of the program as it was truly revolutionary for the company. It changed how we accessed and analyzed financial information.
What made you want to grow at Taco Bell?
“Two things: the people and the pension (which was offered at that time). The pension part is self-explanatory, but more than anything, it’s the quality of the people. I’ve made real friends here. Even when people leave, they’re still people you’ll meet for coffee, lunch, or a drink. Even when someone struggles in their role, people want to help each other succeed rather than tear each other down. And that’s something that’s stayed constant for all these years.”
Who were some mentors or leaders who influenced you?
“Melissa L., former Taco Bell CFO and President of Taco Bell International was a major mentor for me. Back in those days, it was unusual to see a woman in a senior finance leadership role. Melissa was different in how she led. She talked with people, listened, and showed genuine interest in them as individuals, not just in the results they produced. She cared about people and relationships, and she had a very curious mind. She focused not only on the financial results but also on building the brand and building strong relationships. That wasn’t always common in finance leadership at the time.”
What advice would you give to someone just starting at Taco Bell Corporate?
“Network, network, and network. Making an effort to build relationships matters because when someone is looking to fill a role and your name comes up, it helps if people know who you are. Some of my closest friendships started here and I am still friends with them almost 40 years later. The more people you know, the better your work experience and professional development will be.”
Favorite Taco Bell menu item — Then vs. Now?
“Back then, it was the Mexican Pizza with green onion strips. Today I’m a huge fan of the Breakfast Sausage Crunchwrap - no sauce, and I use the breakfast salsa instead.”
What’s next for you?
“First, I’m going to catch up on sleep. Then I’ll focus on things such as home maintenance, spending more time helping my 99-year-old mother, and traveling. I might also finally go back and get a second year of Russian in.”
After 39 years, Matt closes this chapter with pride in the work he’s done, the people he’s met, and the lasting mark he’s left on Taco Bell.