Jeff Torres, one of our Taco Bell Regional Directors (Western Arizona and California), is fast approaching an impressive service milestone: 10 years with Desert de Oro Foods (DDO). In honor of a decade of devoted leadership with us, we sat down to chat about the brand, his career and more.

Jeff, an Arizona native, joined DDO as an Area Coach (AC). Today, in his current role, he’s most passionate about developing people and creating opportunities for them. 

“There is no greater reward than helping someone realize their potential and achieve more than they believed they could,” Jeff shares.

“While I appreciate the lessons of the past, I believe our greatest success comes from embracing change, challenging the status quo, and continuously looking for better ways to grow and improve.”

-Jeff Torres, Taco Bell Regional Director

Q: What was the path from your first position with Taco Bell to today?

A: I started my career with Taco Bell at the age of 16 … Since then, I have grown within the company and have held every position along the way, gaining valuable experience and insight into all aspects of the business.

Q: Reflecting on your 10 years with DDO, what experiences or memories immediately come to mind?

A: What has kept me with DDO throughout my career is knowing that I work for a company that genuinely values me. I appreciate that my concerns are heard, my ideas are considered, and I have the opportunity to help drive improvements across my region.

Q: How would you compare the DDO of 2016 to the DDO of today?

A: As a team, we’ve become much more collaborative.

Jeff’s motto is “Just because it was, doesn’t mean it has to be.”

Q: Throughout three decades with Taco Bell, what have been the most significant news stories and trends you’ve seen impact Taco Bell and QSR?

A: The things I have experienced throughout my time with Taco Bell would amaze a lot of people. I remember making the Bell Beefer and preparing ingredients from scratch, working in an era with virtually no technology, and then watching the company evolve through decades of innovation. I have seen our brand navigate incredible challenges, including a global pandemic, and come out even stronger. Witnessing Taco Bell’s ability to adapt, grow and lead the industry has been inspiring. Those experiences have given me tremendous confidence in our future.