Neil Lester, is a seasoned executive with over 30 years experience in the hospitality industry. He develops realistic, cost effective solutions to current issues that operators are faced with in today’s challenging business environment.

Neil served on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservice Association from 2006 to 2009 and is one of the founding directors of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Canada.

Recognized in the industry as a strategic thinker and innovative leader, Neil has developed national growth strategies that dramatically increased market share, new unit development and same store sales of such well respected international brands such as Burger King Restaurants, Blockbuster Video retail stores and Wendy’s Restaurants of Canada.

Neil knows and appreciates the importance of the customer and meeting their needs. An experienced operator, he brings a wealth of current operational experience to the table including over ten years in senior executive roles.

Neil can vision the business from the unit level to the executive suite and all points in between.

Business Advisory Board
FirstOak benefits from the expertise provided by a select group of business advisors who provide support and strategic business guidance for the company

David Newcombe: Chief Operating Office of Extreme Brandz, a multi branded international QSR company. David has had an extensive and successful career in the North American restaurant industry in various leadership roles with brands such as McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Sodexo, Pizza Hut and MR.SUB. www.extrembrands.com

Mark White: VP Finance and Development, Wendy’s Restaurants of Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group.  Mark provides astute financial acumen and industry perspective that he has developed throughout his extensive career in the Canadian foodservice industry.  www.wendys.com

Sean French:  Owner and founder of the “The Gardener”.  Sean is a consummate entrepreneur who has grown his franchised landscape maintenance and snow removal company into a successful and thriving business. Sean has over 25 years of experience in franchising, growth strategies and small business management. www.hirethegardener.com

Jeanine Miessner: President of Karstan Communications Inc., Jeanine has over 20 years experience in foodservice marketing, providing national and global manufacturers, distributors and chain restaurants with effective marketing strategies that improve sales and profits.   www.karstan.com