In a recent interview with CNBC Make It, Paul Hendel, the owner and operator of 31 McDonald’s locations across Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan, shared his journey from a teenage burger flipper to a successful business owner.
Hendel’s McDonald’s career began in 1973 when he started working at a newly opened McDonald’s in Merrick, New York. Back then, landing a job at McDonald’s was highly sought-after, and Hendel was recommended by his brother who already worked in the kitchen. He saw it as a temporary gig while he pursued a bachelor’s degree in business and planned to join his father on Wall Street.
However, two years later, Hendel was offered a promotion to become an assistant manager at a new McDonald’s location in Glen Cove. Seeing the potential to pay for his college expenses, he accepted the offer and found himself excelling in the role. His dedication and hard work led to promotions, and within three years, he became a general manager.
After graduating college in 1980, Hendel faced a dilemma. He had to choose between joining his father on Wall Street for a potentially higher salary or continuing his career at McDonald’s. Seeking advice from his father, Hendel realized his love for his job and decided to stay with McDonald’s.
Throughout his career, Hendel seized the opportunities that McDonald’s offered, including becoming an owner/operator. In 1990, he became the owner/operator of his first McDonald’s restaurant in Brooklyn and continued to acquire more restaurants each year. His experiences in managing staff and serving thousands of customers a day taught him valuable skills in time management, compassion, and problem-solving.
At 66 years old, Hendel still works five days a week and remains dedicated to his McDonald’s franchises. He enjoys being involved in the day-to-day operations and plans to gradually transition the responsibilities to his children, who also became owner/operators.
Reflecting on his journey, Hendel emphasizes the limitless opportunities that McDonald’s provides. He has no plans for retirement and believes that as long as he continues to do something he loves, he doesn’t need to fully retire. He wants to have the flexibility to pursue his hobbies, such as golfing and spending time with his family, while still being actively involved in the business.
Paul Hendel’s story is a testament to the potential for growth and success within the McDonald’s franchise system. His dedication, passion, and strategic decision-making have allowed him to build a thriving career in the fast-food industry.
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