MEET the man who swapped his desk job to end up running a McDonald's in Carlisle.

Henry Terefenko started his journey with the fast-food chain over two years ago, undergoing six months of training in restaurants in Widnes and Bredbury before taking over his first outlet, the London Road McDonald’s franchise in Carlisle in April 2023.

Prior to this, Henry was a managing director of a Manchester-based housing association and a director of communities with responsibility for homeless prevention and social housing across Cheshire West and Chester.

His business, Fenko Restaurants Ltd, now employs 165 full-time and part-time staff across Cumbria.

Henry officially took reigns after relocating with his family from Altrincham, near Manchester. 

"We have lived in this beautiful area for over a year and have been made to feel incredibly welcome," Henry said. 

“We have really enjoyed spending time as a family exploring the lakes on paddle boards, exploring the beach at Silloth and walking stretches of Hadrian’s Wall,” he said.

But for Henry, he sees the opportunity of being a McDonald’s franchisee meaning more than serving burgers and fries. 

“Giving back to the local community is something I passionately believe in, and my teams at the London Road restaurant do so much in this area.

“ We have fantastic relationships with Carlisle Key, Carlisle Eden Mind, and local foodbanks and are about to start working with Carlisle Youth Zone which I’m really excited about,” he said.

All 165 crew members are also allowed to work one shift per year for a local charity, paid for by the restaurant.

No longer being confined to working behind a desk, he enjoys daily interaction with his team of - predominantly young - crew members.

“It makes you feel both young and old at the same time,” he said.

“Some of my managers have never heard of the movies The Shawshank Redemption or Pulp Fiction!" 

Being a fast-food restaurant boss has brought about a significant change in his life, primarily an improved work-life balance.

"From a family perspective, my work-life balance has never been better; for the first time I am able to pick my 10-year-old daughter up from school and I get to go to her school concerts and sports day etc.

"It really has brought us closer together,” he said. 

Despite economic challenges including the pandemic and rising cost of living, Henry is clear about his future plans.

He seeks to present "excellent value alongside great-tasting food and great service" to help grow the business. 

Community outreach, diversity and inclusion, and philanthropic initiatives are his focal points.

"Over the next few years, I would like to see my business grow, and further develop the restaurant as a positive influence in the local community.

"When it comes to our restaurant teams, it is vital to me that our people feel valued, motivated, respected, and supported, if our people are happy our customers are happy and that is a great recipe for success," he said. 

And just in case you're wondering, his regular order is a Big Mac, fries and Coca-Cola.