Lisa Y Méndez
Lisa Méndez is a seasoned and passionate executive with over 26 years of experience in restaurant operations. As Regional Director for Sunshine Restaurant Partners d/b/a IHOP, she oversees 50 locations across South Florida, managing daily operations, ensuring compliance with brand standards, driving revenue growth, and fostering the development of her teams. Her expertise spans franchise consulting, P&L management, and operational excellence, making her a well-rounded leader committed to both people and performance. Throughout her career, Lisa has championed initiatives that empower others, including the launch of the “Elevating Women in Leadership” program in November 2025, aimed at creating growth opportunities for women within the organization. She is certified in Food Safety and Food Handling and has consistently prioritized operational integrity and team development, earning recognition for her leadership and mentorship within the hospitality industry. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lisa is a dedicated mother of three adult children and a grandmother of three, who values quality time with her family. She enjoys gardening, giving back to her community through programs like the GAL Program, Children’s Miracle Network, Feeding Tampa, and Feeding South Florida.
Lisa’s combination of industry expertise, people-first leadership, and commitment to community impact defines her as a dynamic and inspiring leader.
• GAL Program
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, a supportive and growing team, and the guidance of exceptional mentors who have helped shape my journey. In addition it all lands on attitude, Mindset and being open to evolve and change with lots of self refection.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't stop grinding even if you don't see the result yet, it's right around the corner. Always stick to the basics.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry that a college degree is not required for success. Having a family or being a single mother is not a barrier to hold you from growing or achieving success.
Equally important are maintaining a positive attitude and cultivating strong people and communication skills, as both are key to building relationships and advancing in their careers.
Hard work and consistency is a key factor, and lastly raise your hand!!!!!!
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Everything I do is around PEOPLE. Their development, placement, encouragement, making tough calls, inspiring them, we just happen to sell pancakes.
The very most important part and the hardest part is having the right people in the right places.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Certainly a few that resonate with me are:
Integrity, Attitude, being Passionate about people and hospitality, having and cultivating respectful interactions and ultimately lifting others.