Ford’s Garage, the burgers-and-beer restaurant brand fueled by America’s love affair with the automobile, has announced two new additions to its executive team. David Rosenberger is Vice President of Operations and Wayne Stopford is Director of Information Services.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Dave and Wayne to our team,” said Steve Shlemon, President of Ford’s Garage. “With Dave’s expertise in restaurant operations and Wayne’s in-depth knowledge of the tech needed to be successful in our industry, both bring the type of skill sets needed to help elevate the franchise brand as we continue to expand across the country.”
Rosenberger is an award-winning industry expert with more than 27 years of operational experience in full-service dining, spending most of his career with Carrabba’s Italian Grill and then Mandola’s Italian Kitchen. He received his degree in business administration from West Chester University of Pennsylvania with a focus on marketing and accounting. As Vice President of Operations, he will oversee all aspects of restaurant operations including upholding brand standards, improving work processes, and will be the main liaison with franchisees when rolling out and implementing company programs and initiatives.
“I’m thrilled to join the Ford’s Garage team and hope to grow people, sales and profits through stronger operations and new store openings,” said Rosenberger. “I love the people, the menu and the atmosphere, and look forward to contributing to the brand’s continued success.”
Stopford brings 30 years of IT experience to his new role as Director of Information Services. Prior to joining Ford’s Garage, he spent more than 18 years as a Systems Engineer for Bloomin’ Brands and 12 years at GATX Technologies. He attended George Campbell Technical Institute in Durban, South Africa and in his new role, will manage the company’s technology systems and streamline all processes to support the smooth operation of the restaurants.
“Ford’s Garage has always been a favorite place to enjoy a meal out with friends and family,” said Stopford. “I’m excited to join their dynamic and knowledgeable IT team and ensure we have the right technology in place at all times to help the restaurants run smoothly.”
Ford’s Garage is an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company. It has become a dining destination throughout the country, drawing customers with its nostalgic style and hand-crafted American fare. The décor evokes a classic 1920s service station, including vintage vehicles, fixtures and gas pumps. A Model T or Model A car can be found suspended above the center bar, which features Prohibition-style elements like brick, richly colored woods and a hand-hammered copper bar top. Servers wear mechanic shirts, napkins are composed of blue shop towels, restroom sinks are made from tires and the faucets are fuel pump nozzles.
About Ford’s Garage
Founded in 2012 and franchising since 2015, the original Ford’s Garage opened in Fort Myers, Florida, less than a mile from Henry Ford’s winter home. Today, as an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, enabling them to use the company’s iconic blue oval logo and other brand imagery, the 1920s garage-themed burger and craft beer restaurant franchise has expanded to include a total of 24 locations across six states. For more information, visit www.fordsgarageusa.com.
