Learn how the physical reality of homelessness hit home for KFC's Doug Smart during The CEO SleepOut™
As a company that's well-known for serving up fast meals for many busy South Africans and Africans, KFC Africa is lead by a man who got the opportunity to experience what homelessness might be like from a physical perspective. Learn more about Doug Smart.
Doug Smart's return to The CEO SleepOut™ as MD of KFC Africa is notable: “I was definitely experiencing the physical experience of being out in the cold, but this is only a fraction of the story of homeless people, because in my case, I knew I was going home the next day to a warm shower.”
The significance of The Sun International CEO SleepOut™ hits home for Doug: "There is a reminder at an event like this to stop and not be on auto-pilot. I think it’s a powerful event. Don’t forget, don’t be desensitised.”
Doug is the Managing Director of KFC Africa. Born and briefly raised in South Africa, Doug began his Yum! career in Australia as a Marketing Manager and progressed to General Manager of PH Operations before taking the role of Chief Operating Officer of the Canadian business in 2009.
During his tenure in Canada Doug set in motion many core initiatives such as CHAMPS Excellence Review, Food Safety Alert, operational metrics, people focus and capability councils, driven restaurant excellence mind set and product quality initiatives.
He has also built strong and respect-based relationships within all levels of Canada’s franchisee community. Doug’s experience in developed markets, exceptional leadership skills, and strong operational experience provide the foundation required for Doug to bring tremendous process and discipline to our expanding African business.