51Âþ»­

Daniel Marshall is currently an apprentice in the 3-year Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) programme at 51Âþ»­. In this feature, Daniel shares insights into his career journey with KFC, his areas of expertise, and the valuable skills he's developed since beginning the apprenticeship.

THUMB daniel marshall

Hi Daniel, tell us about yourself, and can you walk us through your career journey has evolved since starting on the apprenticeship programme?

When I joined the programme, I was overseeing seven KFC restaurants as an Area Coach. Shortly after starting, I transitioned into the role of Digital Operations Lead, where I was responsible for KFC’s in-house delivery business and digital sales channels, including Just Eat and Deliveroo. I led a team focused on the digital operations of 1,040 restaurants. After two years in this position, I moved into the role of Operations Excellence Lead, overseeing more than 1,000 restaurants with a team four times larger. Later, at the request of our Chief Operations Officer, I took on the responsibility of managing operations in Ireland and managing eight area managers, as part of the business’s decision to acquire over 200 previously franchise restaurants across the UK&I.

Wow, it sounds like your role has evolved massively! What has it been like managing the transition, and taking on the responsibility of the entire Irish market? How has this growth impacted your leadership approach?

The work has been quite complex. The restaurants we acquired in Ireland face significant challenges and require substantial effort to turn around. Currently, I’m focused on managing senior-level stakeholders, and I know it will take time to grow the business here. This role is quite different, but the transition has been smoother thanks to the Degree Apprenticeship, particularly the modules on stakeholder management. I believe investing time in career development is essential, as it adds tremendous value.

I imagine the revenue from that many restaurants is relatively substantial, how do you manage the pressures of such a large financial responsibility, and how has the CMDA helped you in this area?

The programme has sharpened the knowledge I already had in this field, especially since I've always been responsible for large profit and loss- one wrong decision could cost the business millions. While I had operational experience, I didn’t necessarily have the same depth of understanding. The academic aspect, combined with networking across the cohort, has allowed me to draw on their insights, perspectives, and experiences, enriching my approach significantly.

Which specific skills or knowledge gained from the CMDA do you feel have been most valuable in your progression to a Regional Coach role?

I think critical thinking is the biggest takeaway. Being tasked with expressing myself within a 5,000-word limit and specific constraints has made me more critical of my own work, focusing only on the essential points. This has really helped me in my day-to-day work, allowing me to get to the point much more quickly.

How has the apprenticeship impacted you personally, in terms of your confidence, communication skills, or leadership style?

On a personal level, I feel my confidence has really grown. I work alongside many graduates and have always appeared confident outwardly, but at times, I’ve lacked that same assurance internally on a professional level.

Looking ahead, how do you think the CMDA has prepared you for future roles or challenges within KFC?

My career aspiration is to become COO, and that goal is part of my development plan. Everyone at that level typically holds a master’s degree or an MBA, so I’m always considering how I can build on my qualifications. This programme is a crucial stepping stone toward that goal.

What advice would you give to someone starting out on the CMDA based on your own experience?

Stick with it. I’ve seen many people start with different expectations and then leave after a year, as life is complex and things change- jobs evolve, and a lot can happen over three years. But completing the programme brings a real sense of achievement. Be honest with your tutors; there’s so much support available. People are there to guide and coach you if you’re struggling.

About the CMDA

The CMDA at 51Âþ»­ is a three-year, work-integrated programme designed for aspiring leaders. It combines on-the-job training with academic modules in areas like financial analysis, leadership, project management, and strategic planning. Apprentices work toward a Level 6 BA (Hons) in Business Management and gain Chartered Manager status through the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). The course includes a mix of in-person and online learning and culminates in a work-based project.

For more details, visit 51Âþ»­’s CMDA page.