Cristian was born in Venezuela and began his career with Hart2Hart Inc. in November 2021. He clearly remembers being hired by Suzette at the 26th Street location in Sioux Falls. At the time, Cristian joined the company as a part-time crew member without speaking English, which presented a significant communication challenge. Despite this barrier, he consistently demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and a strong willingness to help, often communicating through signs when needed.
In January 2022, Cristian transitioned to a full-time role, and in October 2022 he was promoted to the leadership team at the 26th Street location. He credits Tiffany Menzia for believing in his potential and “taking a risk” on him, even when his English skills were still developing. Over the years, Cristian supported multiple McDonald’s restaurants across the Sioux Empire area and beyond, stepping in wherever leadership and operational support were needed.
Cristian’s consistent performance, strong work ethic, and people-focused leadership led to continued growth within the organization, ultimately resulting in his role as General Manager. He lives by the principle, “Always do things well and from your heart.”
Throughout his career, Cristian has been recognized for excellence in leadership and operations, including:
• 2024 Operations Award
• 2025 Operations Award
• 2025 Outstanding General Manager – Denver Field Office, an honor awarded to only the top 10% of General Managers within the field office.
Cristian recently transitioned as General Manager from the 85th & Minnesota location to the 12th Street location, taking on a new challenge that represents a natural and intentional progression in his professional journey.
This transition was not driven by a desire for change, but by the belief that true leadership is demonstrated when teams grow strong, confident, and capable of succeeding independently. Working closely alongside his greatest supervisor, Jackson, played a key role in strengthening Cristian’s leadership approach, helping him develop the skills and confidence needed to build empowered, successful teams. Knowing that he helped build a solid foundation at his previous location is something Cristian takes great pride in.
Working with that team remains one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences of his career. Each individual contributed to shaping his understanding of what authentic leadership truly means. At the same time, Cristian believes that continued growth requires embracing new challenges, not only to further develop himself, but also to help elevate and strengthen new teams.
While he may no longer be present day to day at his previous location, those relationships and experiences remain a lasting and valuable part of his journey.
Looking ahead, Cristian’s goals include earning the 2026 POP STAR Award (People, Operations, Profit) and, in the future, the prestigious Ray Kroc Award. He remains focused on continuous growth, leadership development, and long-term impact both within McDonald’s and beyond. With discipline, experience, and heart-led leadership, he aspires to become an Area Supervisor one day, and not that far ahead, because he truly believes that we never know how great the future can be.
Cristian would like to sincerely thank everyone at Hart2Hart Inc. who has supported him throughout his journey, especially Suzette, Tiffany, Janet, Jordan (O/O), and his greatest supervisor, Jackson, whose guidance, support, and trust played an important role in his professional development, as well as the entire leadership team for their continued support.
He credits his future wife, his life partner, for standing by him and supporting him every step of the way. Together, they enjoy spending time with family, traveling, adventures, and life with their Shih Tzu, MAXI. After three years apart from his mother, Cristian looks forward to seeing her again, this time with many stories and experiences to share.
Outside of work, Cristian enjoys staying active by playing baseball and softball, activities that reflect his competitive spirit, teamwork mindset, and love for growth both on and off the field.
Cristian’s favorite part of working at McDonald’s is that no two days are ever the same and there is always something new to learn. He strongly believes in working alongside his team, growing together, and learning from one another every day.
“The sky is the limit.'
