In this episode of Best of Success, Roofing Contractor Group Publisher Jill Bloom explores the fast-paced world of restaurant franchising with Billy Downs, president of Ford's Garage. Downs, a seasoned entrepreneur with decades of experience, recently shared his story and leadership philosophy. 

The Hospitality Wheel

Billy Downs, president of Ford’s Garage, shares how his people-first leadership philosophy, rooted in his “Hospitality Wheel” concept, continues to drive business success and meaningful customer experiences.

Downs founded the successful BD’s Mongolian Barbecue chain, competed in 11 Ironman triathlons, and is now leading the rapid expansion of Ford’s Garage, one of the nation’s fastest-growing restaurant concepts.

A Michigan State University graduate, Downs’ career began with a hospitality-focused education that took him to London, England. There, he helped launch the Mongolian BBQ UK concept before returning to Michigan to open the first BD’s Mongolian Barbecue in Royal Oak. Over the years, he scaled the brand to 37 restaurants, across 12 states, even opening a nonprofit location in Mongolia.

After selling BD’s in 2008, Downs explored consulting and nonprofit work, including serving on the advisory board for Goldfish Swim Schools, helping them scale from 10 to nearly 200 locations. His journey eventually led to an introduction to Ford’s Garage, a Ford Motor Company-themed restaurant chain. What began as consulting quickly turned into a deeper involvement, as Downs became the first franchisee in 2017, opening a location in Dearborn, Mich. Today, the brand has grown to 31 restaurants in eight states, with plans for continued expansion.

A key factor behind Downs’ leadership success is his “Hospitality Wheel,” a framework inspired by his late grandmother. Downs shared that every visit to Grandma Betty’s house left a lasting impression: she was always ready, welcoming, and made one feel like the most important person in the world. Those values are now central to Ford’s Garage and apply well beyond the restaurant industry.

“We realized hospitality isn’t just for restaurants,” Downs said. “It applies to every business, every interaction.”

The Hospitality Wheel is more than a leadership tool, it’s a reminder that success starts with people, preparation, and a commitment to making others feel valued.