MEET “CUSTOMER SERVICE PATTY” – A TRUE SUCCESS STORY

MEET "CUSTOMER SERVICE PATTY" – A TRUE SUCCESS STORY 

We’re keeping the highlights coming in honor of National Food Service Employees Day on Sunday, September 25. Today, meet District Manager Patty Pittman – or, as they call her in Raleigh, “Customer Service Patty.”

Seven years ago when Patty walked into Firehouse Subs for an application, she was just looking for a job. Little did she know, she was walking into a career! 

In 2015, Patty began her journey with Franchise Owner JP Best as a Crew Member at Firehouse Subs Arlington Crossing #767 in Greenville, North Carolina. Advancement within the restaurant quickly followed, with Patty working her way up to the coveted General Manager position. In 2021, Patty was promoted once more to her current role of District Manager, overseeing Mr. Best's restaurants within the greater Raleigh market.

It’s no surprise that Patty has been able to climb her way up the ladder, thanks to her strong work ethic. When she started with Firehouse Subs, Patty – who did not own a vehicle – would walk over four miles to and from work, no matter rain, sleet or snow. 

In fact, Patty proudly states she has never been late and or called out of work – a perfect track record for seven years! 

“Patty is truly a success story! From day one, she wanted to grow, learn and become a valuable asset,” Mr. Best notes. “It has been the greatest honor and joy to have had a front row seat to watch her grow and develop into the amazing person and team member she is.”

We’re happy to report that her consistency, reliability and hard work paid off! Once Patty was promoted to Assistant Manager, she was finally able to purchase a vehicle of her own and the days of walking to work are now behind her. However, Patty is thankful for her humble beginnings, because without them, she may not have been “blessed to be in the position” she is today.

“Firehouse Subs is better today because of Patty,” says Mr. Best. “I can confidently say that my company would not have had anywhere near the success it has had without her leadership.”

Learn more about Patty and her time spent working at Firehouse Subs below.

  •  How long have you been an employee at Firehouse Subs and what positions have you held?

I've been with Firehouse Subs for a little over seven years. I started as a Team Member in 2015 and I have been very blessed to learn the positions of: Shift Leader, Assistant Manager, General Manager, and now District Manager. 

  • What’s your favorite part about working at Firehouse Subs?

Building teams that uphold our standards, especially when it comes to our customer service. It's heartwarming when our regulars come in knowing we will take care of them and that we will add a little extra sunshine to their day. 

  • What is your favorite Firehouse Subs sandwich? 

Definitely the Italian sub! 

  • Describe a moment that made you proud to be part of the Firehouse Subs family.

There are a lot of proud moments I've had with the Firehouse Subs family, but the top moment? It has to be the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. Seeing the first responders receive grants for lifesaving equipment…THAT'S what it is all about! 

  •  Do you have any kids and/or pets? 

My partner in crime and I have: 4 dogs and 2 cats. Rocko is a 6-year-old Pit Bull Mix, Piglet is a 6-year-old Boston Terrier, Pee-Dee is the wild one-eyed Hound mix coming in strong at 2-years-old, and Manicotti is a Shepard mix that just celebrated his first birthday (Happy Birthday, buddy!) The sassy cats are: Reba Twain, a 2-year-old and Cleopatra Elizabeth who just turned 7. 

  •  How do you feel about pickles?

 I LOVE pickles! 

  •  What do you enjoy doing when you’re not selling subs and saving lives?

When I'm not working, you can definitely catch me fishing, traveling, playing Pokemon GO, hanging out with my fur babies, and spending quality time with my friends and family.