From Numbers to Strategy: bringing a Business-Partner Mindset to Finance

Hello Nicolas and welcome to QSRP! Tell us about your professional journey so far.

My experience before joining QSRP has been in large companies, where I always worked in finance: KPMG Audit, L’Oréal, Essilor Luxottica. I also worked in a smaller company where I created the financial structure in the scale-up phase. But I soon realised that I preferred bigger companies, where I could handle more projects and feel more of a business partner.

When I started having conversations with QSRP I did not know them, then recognised the famous brands in QSRP’s large portfolio, and when I went through my recruitment process, I quickly realised that this was what I was looking for.

Today I lead the finance at O’Tacos, I really feel to be business partner while remaining very close to the operations, which I am passionate about.

How was it for you to switch to the QSR industry?

Before joining, the product already spoke to me, I knew the brand very well from a consumer perspective. But when joining the company, I discovered the franchising business model, which I had never worked on before. It was a totally different experience but a very interesting one.

I think I joined in the best moment. France is the country of franchising in Europe, and O’Tacos has grown to be a leader in this country. Yet, we maintained our entrepreneurial, passionate culture. The relationship with people here is close and transparent, which is often not the case in big corporations. We are creative, flexible, and adaptable in a very competitive market.

How was your experience in QSRP in the initial few months?

The first months were very well organised; I had two weeks of induction with different colleagues and departments who demonstrated great openness and support. This was invaluable for me. I have a strong relationship with the Group.

Then, it was time to establish my role. In a sense it was easy because the vision of O’Tacos is clear and aligned with the management of QSRP. We know where we want to go, we take decisions fast and they are very productive. Now it’s about formalising more processes and structure.

What are some challenges in your role?

I think the complexity in O’Tacos is of being a wide company. Our strategy and plan are clear, and the market is hot. But we must keep a close connection and clear information with the different countries we are present in. So, for me the main challenge and responsibility is to help putting in place the right structures, governance and processes without affecting the entrepreneurial mindset.

How does your background help you in your experience in O’Tacos?

My background is a huge pillar for me. I can implement the experiences I earned from the past. I think that my colleagues from QSRP recognised the vision I acquired from my past and that I could help the evolution from the status quo.

I think working in large, structured companies gives you a macro vision of risks, opportunities, structures, and how finance can support a company.

You mentioned being a business partner, not only working in finance. What do you mean?

I think you can have different mindsets in Finance. In the past it was about controlling and reporting, while now I see it as part of the business. Finance is not a support service; it is an active business service. That’s why I say I am a business partner.

As a Finance Leader, I have the chance to use all information and figures of a company to take informed decisions. I want the department to be proactive in decision-making and always challenge consolidated practices and decisions.

How is it to be part of a Group and what do you expect from the future in QSRP?

From a company perspective, QSRP is young, very dynamic, with impressive growth. I see a strong portfolio, able to launch brands and turn them into market leaders. I admire QSRP for this. QSRP knows how to find the gold in businesses and scale them efficiently and effectively.

The Group is very entrepreneurial, takes risks, and they pay off. With strong competencies and brands, this Group is becoming a major leader and playing among the big ones.

For O’Tacos, it’s reassuring to have the support from above. The Group is close to us, gives us feedback and understands what we do. I’ve never experienced such proximity before.

On a personal level, I see many opportunities, both with O’Tacos and the other brands. Honestly, this is the most complete experience I’ve had, and this is also thanks to the very strong and talented team I have. I feel lucky.

All in all, I want to thank QSRP for choosing me. Yes, we have challenges ahead, but with the ambitious plans and teams we have, I am confident we will manage them very well.