Cari Sepulveda

With over 22 years as a McDonald’s franchisee, Cari Sepulveda has built a thriving career in franchise ownership. Alongside her husband, Hector, she began her journey by acquiring two struggling locations in Texas, quickly earning a reputation for operational excellence and business growth within McDonald’s and beyond. Their success led to the expansion of their portfolio, culminating in a bold move to South Carolina in 2020, where they took on 13 restaurants, 7 of which were emerging from bankruptcy. Their work exemplifies McDonald’s commitment to adding value to the communities they serve and caring for the people they employ, and they take pride in making a meaningful impact in the McDonald’s system and the communities where they operate. This work couldn’t be done without the significant contribution of key employees, like the Sepulveda’s Director of Operations, Mario Morales, who has been fully vested in 50 percent ownership of one of the South Carolina restaurants after relocating his family to assist with the turnaround. Now, Mario is completing his registered applicant process to begin his journey as a McDonald’s Franchisee. Cari and Hector believe that allowing others who have contributed to their success to share in that success is their “secret sauce” and what makes their franchise ownership unique. 

Dedicated to both the McDonald’s brand and her community, Cari holds multiple leadership roles, including positions on the National Franchisee Leadership Association Economic Team, OPNAD Value Committee, OPNAD Media & Budget Committee, OPNAD Hispanic Consumer Marketing Committee, Women Operator’s Network Economic Representative, Big South Owner’s Association Executive Board, the South Carolina Owner Operator Insurance Fund Board, and the upcoming board member of YMCA of the Carolinas.

Cari and Hector have been married for 30 years and have four children and a growing family, all of whom have been part of their remarkable journey in franchise ownership.