James Peterson

Dynamic, self‑starting Territory Operations & Client Support Leader with extensive experience managing multi‑market territories, supporting business growth, and strengthening customer relationships across restaurant consulting, merchant services, and insurance. Known for reliability, proactive communication, and a hands‑on approach to helping clients improve operations, understand products, and navigate business needs. Brings strong organizational skills, cross‑functional collaboration, and a commitment to delivering consistent, high‑quality support within fast‑moving environments.

Territory Manager / Consultant (Restaurant Consulting, Wholesale Payments, Insurance) - Peterson LLC

(2025-01)

• Support restaurant operators, merchant service clients, and insurance customers through territory visits, calls, and consistent relationship management.
• Provide product education and guidance across restaurant operations, payment solutions, and insurance options to help clients understand and improve their business needs.
• Maintain organized client records and territory activity using CRM tools while gathering local market insights to share with leadership.

New Restaurant Openings Manager - Denny's Corporate

(2022-01 - 2024-12)

• Led operational readiness and execution for multi-market new restaurant openings.
• Coached leaders on operational excellence, team development, and customer experience.
• Identified performance gaps and implemented corrective action plans to improve opening-week KPIs.
• Partnered with HR, Real Estate, Construction, and Supply Chain to ensure successful launches.
• Delivered training on leadership behaviors, service standards, and team engagement.
• Ensured brand consistency and operational alignment across diverse markets.

Franchise Business Consultant / QA Manager - Dickey's Barbecue Corporate

(2021-01 - 2022-12)

• Supported 40+ franchise locations as regional operations and leadership advisor.
• Improved bottom-quartile performance through targeted coaching and KPI-driven action plans.
• Strengthened franchisee capability through transparent communication and structured development.
• Analyzed performance data, customer feedback, and operational trends to drive improvements.
• Partnered with cross-functional teams to enhance service quality and operational consistency.
• Led regional initiatives to improve culture, team engagement, and customer experience.

General Manager / Multi-Unit Manager - Raspberry Café

(2012-01 - 2016-12)

• Oversaw multi-unit operations, team development, and customer experience.
• Ensured consistent execution of brand standards and operational procedures.
• Built high-performing teams through coaching and leadership development.

NRO Manager / Restaurant Manager - Dickey's BBQ Franchise

(2012-01 - 2013-12)

• Managed new store opening, onboarding, and leadership training.
• Built strong team cultures focused on service, accountability, and operational excellence.

B.S. - Business Administration (Management) - Indiana Institute of Technology (2026-06)

AA - Multidisciplinary Studies - Houston Community College (2020-01)

Operations Management Coursework - Devry University

Health & Kinesiology Studies - Prairie View A&M