I’m Mark Watkins, and my credibility comes from years of hands-on, in-store experience within Chick-fil-A operations. Having served in every operational director role—from Back of House to Executive Director of multi-unit operations—I’ve navigated the challenges and opportunities that Operators face. This experience is what sets me apart from other consultants in the hospitality industry. I don’t offer generic advice; I provide solutions deeply rooted in firsthand knowledge of the unique complexities of running a successful Chick-fil-A restaurant.

During my tenure, I participated in numerous grand openings and successfully managed the launch of the two new stores I managed within four months. I’ve lived through the grind, celebrated the victories, and learned the intricacies of building high-performance teams and delivering consistent guest experiences. A passion for operational excellence and leadership development has always driven my journey.

With Operator Solutions Hub, I aim to complement Chick-fil-A's resources with tailored solutions that address Operators' specific needs. Whether refining processes, developing leadership teams, or crafting a strategic vision for the future, I aim to unlock your team’s full potential and help you achieve sustained success.

Before joining Chick-fil-A, I developed leadership and decision-making skills in law enforcement and refined my technology expertise during an 18-year career in public safety software as a developer. My entrepreneurial spirit also led me to found a real estate solutions company, where I applied creative problem-solving to help homeowners navigate the market.

My core values are faith, family, loyalty, growth, excellence, and teaching. As a U.S. Air Force veteran and ultra-runner, I’m committed to pushing limits—professionally and personally. I’ve been married to my wife, Jill, for 35 years, and we’re proud parents to five children and grandparents to four.

Let’s connect and explore how we can elevate your Chick-fil-A operations. Schedule a consultation today!