Speakers

Over 40 years ago, Tamra took a job as a secretary- making $4.05 an hour- working for a franchisee of Burger King and Taco John’s. Working her way from entry level to office manager and director, Kennedy ultimately bought the company.

Tamra currently owns and operates 6 Taco John’s locations in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area in Minnesota. 

Tamra is an outspoken proponent of franchising. Tamra is often called upon to share her perspective about the role of franchisees and their contributions to their community. She dedicates efforts towards legislative activity that impacts and shapes franchising today and has testified before Congress on the negative impact of joint employer uncertainty.

She currently serves as a Board Member of the IFA [International Franchising Association], is a member of the Franchise Relations Committee at IFA, and Tamra is a former member of the IFA Foundation Board of Trustees. She is a Past Chair of IFA’s Franchisee Forum.

Tamra serves on the Advisory Board for The University of Tennessee Knoxville Franchise Program, providing strategic guidance on franchise education informed by current industry trends. Contributes real-world insight on growth strategy and operational execution, and reviews curriculum to ensure alignment with franchise best practices.