Mr. Simpson began the early part of his career in environmental
consulting engineering and professional services. Ever the
entrepreneur, he has subsequently owned and operated privately held
companies for more than 25 years.
He acquired, along with a business partner, Rasoee in 2007 and
became the President & CEO in July of 2009. Rasoee is a rapidly
growing, quick-casual, modern Indian restaurant chain with head
office in Vancouver, Canada.
Mr. Simpson holds a science and environmental engineering degree
from the University of Guelph and currently resides in Vancouver,
BC.
BeTheBoss - Tell us about the Rasoee concept.
David Simpson – Rasoee is a contemporary,
fast-casual restaurant group that specializes in providing the
customer a unique blend of Indian flavours that appeal to the North
American palate. In addition, we work hard at providing our guests
a quick, enjoyable and relaxing alternative to traditional
fast-food concepts. Hence our company theme…MODERN. INDIAN.
DELIVERED.
BTB - How and when did you become involved with
Rasoee?
DS - My business partner and I bought into the
company about three years ago. We saw it as a great opportunity to
bring a new, easy-to-operate and exciting concept to the
marketplace. I added to my responsibilities as an investor by
becoming the Chief Executive Officer in the summer of 2009.
BTB - What was your background prior to joining
Rasoee?
DS - As a “through-and through” entrepreneur, I
have owned, operated and managed various companies for almost
thirty years. My technical expertise happens to be in psychology –
a discipline that has been very helpful in ensuring we cater, in
every way, to our target audience.
BTB - What are some of the advantages in being a
Rasoee franchisee?
DS - As a small, growing and engaging company, we
offer exceptional flexibility and responsiveness to franchisees.
Their voices are heard at all levels in the company. For example,
all of our franchisees participate in new product development and
meet directly with the CEO, on a monthly basis, in order to express
their views and explore new ideas. At the same time, “small and
growing” does not mean unsophisticated. Our senior management team
has an exceptional amount of food franchising experience, in all
disciplines. So Rasoee franchisees have the “best of both worlds.”
They partner with a company that is both nimble and
knowledgeable!
BTB - Who is your ideal franchisee?
DS - Our group does best with proactive,
enthusiastic individuals who are genuine, hard working and
life-long learners.
BTB - Tell us a little about the Rasoee
market.
DS - Rasoee thrives in high density, high traffic,
cosmopolitan urban centres. Our menu and ambiance appeals to people
from all “walks of life.”
BTB - What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve
learned in growing this franchise?
DS - Get the “people” part right and everything
else follows.
BTB - Do you have a mentor and is there someone
you look to for inspiration?
DS - Over the years, I have been most fortunate to
have had a number of mentors – people who gave generously of their
time and know-how. These days, I very much enjoy having the
opportunity to return the favour, mentoring a number of individuals
who work for the company. I find inspiration all around me. Team
members, franchisees, suppliers, customers and a host of others all
provide insight and great ideas every day. It makes for an exciting
and invigorating business environment!
BTB - What advice do you have for someone looking
to acquire a franchise?
DS - First and foremost, take your time. Start by
having a healthy conversation with yourself about who you are and
what matters to you most when investing in a franchise. Do your
research and ask lots of questions. If this is your first business
venture, make sure you talk to others who have demonstrated success
in owning and operating a company. Get objective advice. And above
all, be true to yourself. Make your own path.
BTB - In your opinion, why do you think that
Rasoee would be a great opportunity for someone?
DS - Of course, it is vitally important that all
of our franchisees have a profitable business. But within that
context, the bedrock foundation of the company is to ensure that
all of our franchisees feel like they are part of a family. Our
franchisees know they can count on us. We do what we say we will
do. And we are behind them every step of the way. Without a doubt,
an old-fashioned handshake means something with our company!
Welcome to the family.
