Q&A With Farmer Boys® Leadership Team: Gisel Villeda

July 1, 2024

Gisel Villeda has recently taken on the role as Vice President of Human Resources at Farmer Boys®, bringing with her over 20 years of extensive experience in human resources. Her dedication to team member development and her strategic acumen have been instrumental in driving HR initiatives at Farmer Boys®. Gisel works closely with our corporate locations, providing crucial support in team member relations, risk management, coaching and development of leadership teams, compliance with state and federal laws, benefits, and more.
We’re excited to share her insights and experiences in this exclusive Q&A.

Q: What first attracted you to Farmer Boys®?

GV: I was drawn to the family-oriented approach and values of Farmer Boys®. The opportunity to make a significant positive impact and help grow the brand through the Human Resources department was incredibly appealing. It only took me a short time to understand why team members are not just loyal to the brand but to the Havadjias family. Their dedication, commitment, and loyalty the family has for the Farmer Boys® team members— they truly treat everyone as part of the family.

Q: How did you get your start in franchising, and what’s your favorite aspect of the industry?

GV: While I support the corporate locations and assist the franchisor, my career has involved supporting various markets and businesses. I love to see how each manager acts as an owner and develops team members across various departments. Being part of someone’s growth, whether through coaching or leading development programs is what makes it all worthwhile.

Q: What are you most excited about with this new position?

GV: I am looking forward to the continual opportunity to help improve processes and procedures within the HR department. Additionally, I am excited to empower our operators through the HR education and support.

Q: What attracted you to HR, and how can franchisors improve their workplace cultures?

Gisel: My passion for teaching and helping others is what attracted me to HR. I enjoy seeing people grow and providing guidance to make a positive difference.

Training and development are key for every franchisor. When we’ve looked at turnover and conduct exit surveys, we’ve found that it’s one of the main reasons someone leaves. Our exit surveys have shown that lack of proper training is a primary reason for turnover. Investing in comprehensive training programs significantly improves retention.

Q: What attracted you to the fast-casual dining industry, and how does leading HR for those brands differ from other industries?

GV: Most of my career has been in the food industry, from supermarkets with deli departments to Taquerias, but Farmer Boys® is my first official fast-casual brand. Working in supermarket retail helped me develop valuable multi-tasking skills, as I managed seven different departments with unique needs. Focusing on one specific area at Farmer Boys® has allowed me to grow as a leader. I started as a Senior Director of HR and now have the honor of leading the HR & Risk Management Department, which has given me a deep understanding of the fast-casual industry.

Interested in learning more about how Farmer Boys® continues to grow and become a part of our family? Fill out an inquiry form and our amazing team will be in touch.