You’ve probably seen him on one of your late night trips to Qdoba. Or maybe you saw him last weekend at a party around campus. Next time though, you’ll probably see him walking the runways or hosting America’s next hit television show. Who is this kid anyway?
Meet Brian Gillette, or as his friends like to call him, Qdoba Brian (or QB if they’re in a hurry). Right now, this charismatic and charming guy works as the Marketing and Catering Manager for Qdoba Eugene. A decade younger than the 8 other employees in Oregon who hold his same position, Brian is in charge of grassroots relationships with Eugene and the UO campus, building the catering business, and expanding the Qdoba brand. When he’s not doing all that, he’s probably making your burrito, which he is “exhaustingly serious” about – but not so serious that he forgets to smile and chat. In fact, you’ve probably become his best friend before without even realizing it. “What I like best about the UO community is the trust that people have for each other…it’s so easy to make a friend and engage in vulnerable conversation pretty much anywhere [in Eugene]. Especially in Qdoba.”
But Brian is more than just an expert in modern Mexican cuisine. He’s a crazy talented musician, with the ability to play the drums, piano, guitar, ukulele, and cello. Not to mention he has a singing voice that will make you swoon. With all that talent, it’s no surprise he’s going places; an aspiring actor and model, Brian is seizing every opportunity to make his dreams happen. About a year ago, he signed with a talent development company who helped him find his way to Los Angeles to check out the industry. Last month, he signed with an agency and manager, and has plans to move to LA in the spring. In ten years, he hopes to be working in the entertainment business, a dream he has had since he was a child. That’s the thing about Brian – he is ridiculously true to himself, and not shy about what he wants. “The greatest gift you have to give to this world is yourself, so don’t try and sell it to be like some other person! That’s my life motto.”