Andy Parker

Andy owns one Moxies in Fort McMurray and Grande Prairie and in July 2008, the first Shark Club in Edmonton. He’s been with Moxies for 19 years. His First job was as a waiter while he was attending the University of Calgary.

Big Break: The General Manager at the Calgary Chinook Moxie’s bought a Moxie’s franchise and offered to take Andy along.  His first taste of ownership was a small stake in two Edmonton Moxie’s.

Why Shark Club: “I’ve seen lots of big chains come into Fort McMurray and then close down…  But Moxie’s has the model worked out… You can’t lose.”

Big cool innovation: Keeping staff in Fort McMurray is tough so Andy has to be innovative. Last year he ran a “Body Transformation Challenge.’’  30 staff members (out of 90) had “before” pictures taken, were given diet info, gym memberships and a whole bunch of encouragement and support. The winner won a trip for two to Las Vegas. “It really built staff morale.”

Even bigger cool innovation: Work with Andy for two years he’ll give you a chance to buy in as an owner at a “preferred rate.”

Biggest perk: Working with great people and building long term relationships. “My G.M. was a line cook when we first worked together back in ’88. We’ve worked on and off together ever since.”

Advice: “For young people who want to get ahead in the restaurant business, now is the time to get in.”

Possibly irrelevant factoid: Was a wrestler in university and has worked as a Private Investigator.  Don’t mess with Andy.

Non-work interests: Time with family, coaching high school wrestling, serving on local college board.

Big Goal: “Open more restaurants in Fort Mac, Grande Prairie and Edmonton.”