Some careers are carefully planned, others come together through a combination of timing and serendipity. For Ted Watson, Restaurant General Manager (RGM) of Shamrock Company’s newly opened Dunkin’ in Kentwood, MI it was very much the latter.

Ted’s journey to Dunkin’ started a couple of years ago when he and his wife opened their own coffee shop. While the café experience didn’t turn out quite as they’d hoped, it introduced Ted to someone who would change the course of his career — a Dunkin’ Corporate team member who worked out of their café daily. Over time, the two built a strong relationship, and when the café reached the end of its run, a new opportunity emerged.

“He suggested I could come work for Dunkin’,” Ted shares. 

Fast forward to today and Ted is standing inside a bustling Dunkin’ on its grand opening day, a moment that’s been months in the making.

“It feels incredible,” he shares. “To see this many people here is amazing. I never expected anything like this.”

“Compared to any other place, Dunkin’ blows it out of the water.”

– Ted Watson, Dunkin’ RGM

Building the Right Team

Behind every successful restaurant opening is a strong team, and Ted was intentional about assembling one that would thrive together.

“Our team has a good vibe,” he explains.

While many team members are young, Ted says they’ve stepped up in a big way. “Everyone’s taking it really well and doing a great job so far,” he says.

That positive energy is noticeable behind the counter and helped make opening day a success.

A Warm Welcome

If there was ever any doubt about how much Kentwood wanted this Dunkin’, Ted didn’t have to look far for reassurance. He says that excited [future] guests frequently checked in on the status of construction. That kind of enthusiasm made the long days of preparation worth it.

“I had people knocking on the doors every day asking, ‘When are you opening?’ I’m glad we’re finally here for them.”

– Ted Watson, Dunkin’ RGM

Looking Ahead

From an unexpected career pivot to leading a highly anticipated store opening, Ted’s story is a reminder that sometimes the best opportunities come from simply showing up, building relationships and being ready when your moment arrives.

As the Kentwood Dunkin’ officially welcomes guests, one thing is clear: the community is ready, our team is energized and Ted is right where he’s meant to be!