Border Foods Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Border Foods has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, people, and financial oversight.

Driven by a commitment to operational excellence, Border Foods is dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences across its extensive network of Taco Bell franchises, fostering growth through strategic market penetration and a robust operational framework.

Leadership Roles at Border Foods

  • Chief Executive Officer - Lee Engler
  • Chief Financial Officer - Brian Axness
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Frank Bowers
  • Chief Operating Officer - Vincent Bosscher
  • Chief People Officer - Sharla Hennek
  • Lee Engler - Chief Executive Officer

    Lee Engler, the Chief Executive Officer at Border Foods, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the company's extensive Taco Bell franchise operations. Engler guides the executive team in navigating market dynamics across Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and franchise standards. This leadership role involves cultivating strategic partnerships and driving initiatives that enhance brand presence and operational efficiency throughout the multi-state region. By focusing on sustainable growth and market leadership, Lee Engler ensures the company's continued success and expansion within the quick-service restaurant sector. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses all facets of business development and long-term planning, solidifying Border Foods' position as a leading franchisee.

    Brian Axness - Chief Financial Officer

    Brian Axness, the Chief Financial Officer at Border Foods, directs all financial planning, accounting, and reporting functions for the organization. Axness manages the fiscal health of the company, overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis to support strategic decision-making across its multi-state operations. This leadership position involves ensuring financial compliance, managing capital allocation, and identifying opportunities for fiscal optimization within the restaurant franchise model. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and driving fiscal discipline, Brian Axness safeguards the company's assets and supports its long-term growth objectives. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in navigating the economic landscape and ensuring the financial stability of Border Foods' extensive network.
    Brian Axness

    Frank Bowers - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Frank Bowers, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Border Foods, collaborates with the executive team on financial strategy and oversight. Bowers supports the Chief Financial Officer in managing the company's financial operations, including investment analysis and risk management across its diverse franchise portfolio. This role involves contributing to financial policy development and ensuring the integrity of financial reporting for all locations throughout Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. By providing critical financial insights and supporting strategic initiatives, Frank Bowers plays a key part in the company's financial performance and sustainability. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's focus is on enhancing financial performance and supporting the company's expansion goals.

    Vincent Bosscher - Chief Operating Officer

    Vincent Bosscher, the Chief Operating Officer at Border Foods, oversees the day-to-day operational execution across all franchise locations. Bosscher manages the complex logistics and service delivery standards that define the Taco Bell experience, ensuring consistent quality and customer satisfaction throughout Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. This critical role involves optimizing restaurant performance, implementing operational efficiencies, and driving team performance to meet and exceed business targets. By focusing on streamlined processes and effective resource management, Vincent Bosscher directly impacts the profitability and scalability of the franchise network. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to maintaining high standards in food preparation, service speed, and overall restaurant ambiance, crucial for sustained market competitiveness.
    Vincent Bosscher

    Sharla Hennek - Chief People Officer

    Sharla Hennek, the Chief People Officer at Border Foods, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies for the organization. Hennek oversees the development and implementation of programs that foster a positive work environment, drive employee engagement, and support the professional growth of team members across all franchise locations. This vital role involves managing recruitment, compensation, benefits, and employee relations to ensure a skilled and motivated workforce. By championing people-centric initiatives and cultivating a strong organizational culture, Sharla Hennek directly contributes to operational excellence and employee retention. The Chief People Officer's dedication to talent development is fundamental to Border Foods' success in the competitive quick-service restaurant industry.
    Sharla Hennek

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Border Foods Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Border Foods?
    Border Foods is led by Lee Engler (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Brian Axness (Chief Financial Officer) and Frank Bowers (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Border Foods’s executive team?
    The executive team of Border Foods includes leaders such as Lee Engler (Chief Executive Officer), Brian Axness (Chief Financial Officer), Frank Bowers (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Border Foods have?
    Border Foods has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Border Foods’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Border Foods includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief People Officer.