Sarah Pugh
Muncie,IN
Summary
Strategic and results-driven multi-unit leader with nearly 15 years of experience at Taco Bell, progressing from team member to district manager. A proven track record of driving operational excellence, growing revenue, and developing high-performing teams. Passionate about leadership, talent development, and building a culture of accountability and recognition. Adept at scaling business operations, implementing strategic initiatives, and fostering strong team engagement. Now seeking the next step in my career in an executive leadership role where I can leverage my expertise to drive business growth, develop future leaders, and enhance operational performance on a larger scale.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
District Manager
Taco Bell
09.2021 - Current
- Lead operations for multiple locations, delivering consistent sales growth and operational excellence
- Develop and mentor restaurant leaders, creating a pipeline of top-performing talent
- Execute strategic initiatives to improve transaction growth, labor efficiency, and customer satisfaction
- Champion a people-first leadership approach, driving employee engagement and retention
- Recognized for innovative leadership and employee recognition programs that enhance company culture
Restaurant General Manager
Taco Bell
03.2016 - 09.2021
- Drove business growth through operational excellence and team development
- Increased profitability and guest satisfaction scores by optimizing processes and leadership coaching
- Built and retained high-performing teams by fostering a culture of accountability and recognition
- Developed multiple managers who successfully advanced into higher leadership roles
Assistant Manager & Shift Lead
Taco Bell
01.2012 - 01.2016
- Supported high-volume operations, ensuring efficient shift execution and customer satisfaction
- Provided hands-on coaching to employees, strengthening leadership skills across the team
- Managed inventory, cash handling, and operational compliance to meet business standards
Team Member
Taco Bell
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Gained foundational experience in customer service, teamwork, and operations
- Demonstrated leadership potential, earning multiple promotions through strong performance and initiative
Education
Highschool Diploma -
Southside Highschool
Muncie, In06.2012
Skills
- Multi-Unit Leadership
- Business Strategy
- Talent Development
- Succession Planning
- Sales Growth
- Profitability Optimization
- Operational Efficiency
- Process Improvement
- Culture Initiatives
- Employee Engagement
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Large-Scale Team Leadership
Education And Leadership Development
Highschool Diploma, Taco Bell Leadership Development Programs: TheMark, TheMark2.0, AOP Conference in 2022, AOP Conference in 2023, AOP Conference in 2024
Awards
Taco Bell's 30 under 30 list - 2021
Key Leadership Strengths
- Multi-Unit Leadership & Business Strategy
- Talent Development & Succession Planning
- Sales Growth & Profitability Optimization
- Operational Efficiency & Process Improvement
- Culture & Employee Engagement Initiatives
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Large-Scale Team Leadership & Coaching
- Recognition & Morale Building
Timeline
District Manager
Taco Bell
09.2021 - Current
Restaurant General Manager
Taco Bell
03.2016 - 09.2021
Assistant Manager & Shift Lead
Taco Bell
01.2012 - 01.2016
Team Member
Taco Bell
01.2010 - 01.2012
Highschool Diploma -
Southside Highschool
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