← All Interviews

Fezan Raza

Android App Developer / 7-Eleven Franchisee / Social Media Account Specialist

7 ALMS, Limited Liability Company / 7-Eleven, Inc.

Fezan Raza, Android App Developer, 7-Eleven Franchisee, and Social Media Account Specialist, brings together technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership across multiple industries. With over nine years of experience developing Android and Java applications while managing 7-Eleven franchises in the U.S., he’s built a career grounded in consistency, communication, and innovation. In this interview, Fezan reflects on how curiosity and collaboration drive his success, the trends shaping mobile technology, and the lessons that continue to guide his approach to business and development.

• LinkedIn

1. How would you describe your professional background in a few sentences?

   I have a diverse professional background that bridges technology, entrepreneurship, and customer service. I’m an Android and Java Developer with over nine years of experience leading app projects across international teams, while also managing multiple 7-Eleven franchise operations in the U.S. This blend of technical expertise and real-world business management has helped me develop a strong foundation in problem-solving, leadership, and innovation.

2. What lesson from your first job still guides you today?

   One lesson from my first job that still guides me today is the importance of consistency and communication. Working in a fast-paced 7-Eleven environment taught me that small, reliable actions - such as showing up on time, listening carefully, and solving problems quickly - build long-term trust with both customers and team members. That mindset of steady excellence has shaped how I lead projects and collaborate with people to this day.

3. How do you define success in your current position?

   I define success by the impact and efficiency of the systems I build and the people I work with. Whether I’m developing an app, managing a franchise team, or coordinating an overseas project, success means seeing clear results and smoother operations, satisfied clients, and motivated teams. For me, true success is creating solutions that continue to work long after I’ve stepped away, proving that the process itself is sustainable and valuable.

4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone building expertise?

   My advice is to stay curious and consistent. Expertise isn’t built overnight - it comes from experimenting, failing, and improving a little every day. Learn the theory, but also put it into practice, even on small projects. The combination of hands-on experience and a willingness to keep learning is what truly sets experts apart.

5. What trends are shaping your industry right now?

   The biggest trends shaping my industry right now are automation, AI integration, and the shift toward personalized user experiences. Mobile apps and digital platforms are becoming smarter and more adaptive, using data to anticipate user needs in real time. There’s also a growing focus on ethical technology - building systems that respect privacy and transparency while still delivering innovation. These trends are transforming how developers, businesses, and customers connect in the digital space.

6. How would you describe your leadership style?

   I’d describe my leadership style as collaborative and hands-on. I believe in setting clear expectations, leading by example, and giving people the freedom to take ownership of their work. Whether managing a store team or coordinating app developers overseas, I focus on communication, trust, and steady guidance - creating an environment where everyone feels supported and motivated to deliver their best.

7. Who or what played a key role in your success story?

   A key role in my success has been the combination of mentorship and early exposure to real responsibility. Growing up in a family that operated 7-Eleven franchises taught me the value of hard work, teamwork, and problem-solving from a young age. Along the way, I’ve also had mentors who encouraged me to think bigger - to apply those same principles of consistency and integrity to technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

8. What advice would you give to someone just starting out?

   My advice is to start small but stay consistent. Don’t wait for perfect conditions - learn as you go, make mistakes, and treat each one as progress. The people who grow fastest are those who stay curious, take initiative, and keep showing up even when things get tough. Every skill you build early becomes the foundation for your long-term success.