From McDonald’s Crew Member to Six-Restaurant Owner

Terry Eagle took a part-time job at a McDonald’s in South London back in 1976. Fifty years later, he owns six of them.

From Crew Member to Franchise Owner

Eagle started as a teenage crew member at just 16, greeting customers and working the till. Four years later, at 19, he was promoted to manager. That early success set him on a path to franchise ownership: he applied to become a franchisee and opened his first restaurant in Camberwell before eventually expanding to six locations across South London.

Now 65, Eagle reflected on how far he’s come since his first shift behind the counter. “Starting out as a crew member, I never could have imagined the journey ahead of me,” he said.

Giving Back to the Community

Beyond running his restaurants, Eagle has focused much of his career on community impact. He’s been a vocal advocate for hiring people with disabilities, partnered with local police to help reduce crime in the area, and helped raise more than $200,000 for Ronald McDonald House UK. His efforts have earned him a commendation from the Metropolitan Police and three Parliamentary awards.

In July, Eagle’s team surprised him with a celebration marking his 50th work anniversary. For the occasion, he wore a tie once given to him by Fred Turner, the former CEO of McDonald’s U.S.

For Eagle, the milestone represents more than business success. “For me, business has always been about more than just the numbers,” he said. “It’s about people.”