Executive Movements - May 2025
Brinker International Promotes Aaron White to EVP, Brinker Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer
May 12, 2025, 16:30 ET
White continues her legacy of impact with an expanded role to lead operations
DALLAS, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) today announced the promotion of longtime Brinker leader Aaron White to Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer for the company's restaurant brands, Chili's® Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy®.
In this expanded role, she will oversee both Operations strategy and PeopleWorks across the Restaurant Support Center, Chili's and Maggiano's, with her leadership team focused on driving the company's next level of operational improvements to improve the team member and guest experience.
White began her Brinker career 29 years ago as a Chili's server and bartender and has most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer. Aaron has a track record of significant results in her almost three decades in Operations and PeopleWorks roles. Prior to her role as Brinker CPO, she was Chili's Co-Chief Operating Officer, supporting the brand's eastern U.S. locations. Aaron's teams have delivered huge results in the company's turnaround through simplification, redesigning work processes to be more efficient, and reawakening the ChiliHead culture that has been a key to Chili's success for the brand's 50 years.
"Aaron has earned deep respect across the organization for her ability to strategize, get things done, bring people together, and elevate our culture. She's the kind of leader who both delivers results and does it in the right way that is both sustainable and culture-building," said Brinker CEO and President Kevin Hochman. "As we look toward our future growth and continue our simplification journey in our restaurants, Aaron will lead her team with deep expertise to ensure our operators' jobs are easier, more fun, and more rewarding and the Guest experience remains top of mind."
In April 2025, she was named to the Nation's Restaurant News Power List: Women in Foodservice for her significant role in shaping the company's culture and driving organizational change.
White will continue reporting to Brinker CEO and President Kevin Hochman.
About Brinker International
Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) is one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and proud home to two beloved brands: Chili's® Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy®. Since opening our first Chili's in Dallas in 1975, we've grown to own, operate or franchise more than 1,600 restaurants across 29 countries and two U.S. territories – serving bold flavors, handcrafted drinks, and genuine hospitality along the way. At Brinker, our purpose is simple: to make everyone feel special – whether you're catching up over sizzling fajitas, enjoying Italian favorites with family, grabbing takeout for a cozy night in, or a team member creating a memorable moment for a guest. Learn more about our brands, our culture, and our people at brinker.com.
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MGM Resorts International Welcomes Ryan Abboushi as President of Entertainment
May 12, 2025, 16:15 ET
Abboushi will lead company's entertainment programming and operations
LAS VEGAS, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) announced today that veteran talent agent Ryan Abboushi is joining the company as President of Entertainment. As leader of its entertainment division, Abboushi will oversee MGM Resorts' unified programming and operations strategy to build on and expand its position as a world-class leader in live entertainment and immersive experiences.
"Ryan's leadership and experience will be instrumental in seamlessly integrating art, sports and immersive content at MGM Resorts," said Ari Kastrati, Chief Content, Hospitality and Development Officer. "We are thrilled to welcome Ryan to Las Vegas, as he delivers unforgettable experiences to our guests."
Abboushi previously spent the last 16 years at the prestigious talent and sports agency, Creative Arts Agency (CAA). While at CAA, he packaged and sold numerous films, television shows and specials, as well as guided the careers of many of the world's most renowned storytellers.
In his new role, Abboushi will provide oversight of MGM Resorts' venue utilization, show bookings, talent management and partner relationships. He also will be responsible for building scalable, branded entertainment and content experiences that can extend across MGM Resorts' many destinations.
Abboushi began his career at William Morris Agency. He is a graduate of the University of Southern California. His first day with MGM Resorts will be June 16.
ABOUT MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL
MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is an S&P 500® global gaming and entertainment company with national and international locations featuring best-in-class hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, incredible live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings. MGM Resorts creates immersive, iconic experiences through its suite of Las Vegas-inspired brands. The MGM Resorts portfolio encompasses 31 unique hotel and gaming destinations globally, including some of the most recognizable resort brands in the industry. The Company's 50/50 venture, BetMGM, LLC, offers sports betting and online gaming in North America through market-leading brands, including BetMGM and partypoker, and the Company's subsidiary, LV Lion Holding Limited, offers sports betting and online gaming through market-leading brands in several jurisdictions throughout Europe. The Company is currently pursuing targeted expansion in Asia through an integrated resort development in Japan. Through its Focused on What Matters philosophy, MGM Resorts commits to creating a more sustainable future, while striving to make a bigger difference in the lives of its employees, guests and in the communities where it operates. The global employees of MGM Resorts are proud of their company for being recognized as one of FORTUNE® Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies®. For more information, please visit us at www.mgmresorts.com. Please also connect with us @MGMResortsIntl on X as well as Facebook and Instagram.
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Chipotle Names Jason Kidd Chief Operating Officer, President and Chief Strategy Officer Jack Hartung Sets Retirement Date
May 06, 2025, 16:10 ET
Kidd brings over 25 years of operations and retail experience to the company's Executive Committee
Hartung to step down as an executive officer to become a senior advisor for the company effective June 1
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced that it hired Jason Kidd as its chief operating officer, effective May 19. Kidd will be responsible for overseeing operations of Chipotle's nearly 3,800 restaurants and will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Scott Boatwright, based in the company's Newport Beach headquarters. Additionally, after nearly 25 years with the company, President and Chief Strategy Officer Jack Hartung will step down from his current role on June 1 and will remain with the company as a senior advisor through early March 2026.
Kidd joins Chipotle from Taco Bell, where he was the global chief operating officer. Prior to that, he held the role of president of Hearing Lab Technology, LLC. Before that, Kidd spent six years leading operations at 99 Cents Only Stores, most recently serving as president and chief operating officer. Additionally, he held roles of increasing responsibility across operations, merchandising, planning and supply chain at Sam's Club for 20 years.
"Kidd brings proven accomplishments and a wealth of knowledge that will further support our 130,000 team members in our restaurants with delivering exceptional hospitality to our guests," said Boatwright. "His vast operational experience at large scale multi-unit retail will bring a strong foundation and new strategic thinking to our executive team."
"I am grateful for the opportunity to join Chipotle's world-class leadership team and look forward to further enhancing experiences for our team members and guests," stated Kidd. "Chipotle's current efforts to build a guest obsessed culture and modernize the back of house are exciting, and I believe there's tremendous growth ahead for this incredible brand."
Hartung, who joined Chipotle in 2002 and has held various titles including chief financial and administrative officer, will become a senior advisor beginning next month prior to his 2026 retirement. He has spent the last nine months working alongside Boatwright and Chief Financial Officer Adam Rymer as they took on their new roles. The smooth transition is a testament to Chipotle's strong talent bench and thoughtful succession planning, as the company continues to execute against its strategic plan.
Hartung stated: "I have tremendous confidence that we have the right leaders and strategies in place to drive value for our guests, employees and shareholders. During my time at Chipotle, we opened over 3,700 restaurants across seven countries, and I am confident there is a long runway ahead. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the company that created an entirely new category of dining and made real food accessible for all. I look forward to watching this great organization continue to Cultivate a Better World."
"Jack's contributions to Chipotle over nearly three decades are immeasurable, and I'm extremely grateful for his leadership, guidance and friendship," said Boatwright. "Jack's selfless decision to delay his retirement and aid the organization through our leadership transition will never be forgotten, and I extend my sincerest gratitude for the instrumental role he played in ensuring Chipotle always delivered on its purpose."
As part of Hartung's transition, Curt Garner, chief customer and technology officer, will expand his scope of responsibility to oversee supply chain as the president, chief strategy and technology officer. In conjunction, Chris Brandt, chief brand officer, will lead a cross-functional team to drive all menu and ingredient processes as president, chief brand officer.
About Chipotle
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. There are nearly 3,800 restaurants as of March 31, 2025, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Kuwait, and United Arab Emirates and it is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe. With over 130,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit CHIPOTLE.COM.
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FAT Brands Announces Drew Martin as Chief Information Officer
May 05, 2025 09:00 ET
Another stellar hire by Wray Executive Search
Global Restaurant Franchising Company Hires Seasoned Global IT Executive
LOS ANGELES, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc., announces the hiring of Drew Martin as Chief Information Officer. Martin joins FAT Brands with over 35 years of IT experience, delivering impactful results for a wide range of companies—from Fortune 500 companies to high-growth start-ups. Martin will be focused on delivering scalable technological solutions to progress the growth of FAT Brands.
Martin’s diverse background includes serving as Senior Vice President and CIO for Jack in the Box and Senior Vice President and CIO for Sony Electronics. Other previous ventures include PepsiCo, leading the digital transformation/supporting the sale of Jenny Craig, and serving as Executive Vice President and CIO of high-growth software start-up Lytx Inc., where Martin led the development of AI product features.
“Drew’s vast experience across the consumer landscape will provide great value to FAT Brands as we continue to enhance and strengthen our technology platforms,” said Thayer Wiederhorn, Chief Operating Officer of FAT Brands. “His deep understanding of digital innovation will be instrumental as we work to elevate our guest experience, streamline operations, and drive long-term growth across our portfolio of brands.”
“FAT Brands continues to cement itself as a leader in the restaurant space with its dynamic, growing restaurant portfolio,” said Drew Martin, CIO of FAT Brands. “I look forward to identifying new technology opportunities that provide strategic value across our brands and position the company as an innovator within the industry.”
For more information on FAT Brands, visit www.fatbrands.com.
About FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands
FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets and develops fast casual, quick-service, casual and polished casual dining restaurant concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 18 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Smokey Bones, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit www.fatbrands.com.
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FAT Brands Announces Appointment of Taylor Wiederhorn as Co-CEO
April 30, 2025
Rob Rosen Transitions to Consulting Role at Global Restaurant Franchising Company
Los Angeles, CA (RestaurantNews.com) FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc., parent company of Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Johnny Rockets and 15 other restaurant concepts, announces the appointment of Taylor Wiederhorn as Co-Chief Executive Officer. Effective April 29, Rob Rosen will transition from his role as Co-CEO to a consulting position focused on debt/capital markets for the company. Ken Kuick will continue to serve as Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
“For the last eight years, I have served as Chief Development Officer, overseeing the sale of thousands of new franchise locations across our portfolio of brands. Most recently, in 2023, I assumed the role of brand CEO for 15 of our concepts,” said Taylor Wiederhorn, Chief Development Officer of FAT Brands. “Stepping into the Co-CEO role will be a seamless transition as I am confident that my unique background and growth perspective will complement the financial acumen of Co-CEO, Ken Kuick.”
“It has been an incredible four years at FAT Brands—filled with numerous strategic acquisitions, assuming the role of Co-CEO in 2023, and most recently, the IPO of Twin Hospitality Group,” said Rob Rosen, Co-CEO of FAT Brands. “I look forward to continuing to help drive the company forward, maintaining a consulting role focused on debt/capital markets.”
For more information on FAT Brands, visit FATbrands.com.
About FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands
FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets and develops fast casual, quick-service, casual and polished casual dining restaurant concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 18 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Smokey Bones, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit visit FATbrands.com.
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Sweetgreen Appoints Jason Cochran as Chief Operating Officer
Apr 29, 2025 9:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Seasoned restaurant and retail executive brings over 25 years of operational leadership experience to Sweetgreen’s executive team
Sweetgreen Appoints Jason Cochran as Chief Operating Officer
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sweetgreen, Inc. (NYSE: SG), the mission-driven restaurant brand connecting more people to real food, today announced the appointment of Jason Cochran as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer, effective May 5th. Cochran will oversee Field Operations and as well as Operations Services and Innovation for the Company and will report directly to Sweetgreen’s Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Neman.
“Jason is a trusted and visionary leader with hands-on operational experience at growth oriented brands,” said Jonathan Neman, Co-Founder and CEO of Sweetgreen. “His strategic mindset, operational discipline, and ability to inspire teams make him uniquely positioned to help lead Sweetgreen into its next chapter of growth. Jason’s alignment with our mission and cultural fit is clear, and I’m incredibly excited to welcome him to the team as we continue scaling our impact across more communities.”
Cochran brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience in restaurant and consumer retail. Prior to joining Sweetgreen, he served as CEO and a board member of American West Restaurant Group, the third-largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the U.S., where he led the company through transformational growth and operational improvements across hundreds of locations.
Previously, Cochran was Vice President of Operations Services at Chipotle Mexican Grill, supporting over 3,000 restaurants and $8.6 billion in annual revenue. During his tenure, he led cross-functional efforts in process improvement, menu and equipment innovation, new store development, and field training. Earlier in his career, Cochran spent 14 years at GameStop, ultimately serving as Senior Vice President of U.S. Stores, responsible for 4,400 locations and more than $7.5 billion in sales.
“I’m thrilled to join Sweetgreen at such a pivotal moment,” said Cochran. “I’ve long admired the brand’s mission, focus on real food, and commitment to operational excellence. I look forward to working alongside this talented team to scale the business, strengthen the culture, and deliver continued value for our customers, team members, and shareholders.”
About Sweetgreen:
Sweetgreen (NYSE: SG) is on a mission to build healthier communities by connecting people to real food. Sweetgreen sources the best quality ingredients from farmers and suppliers they trust to cook food from scratch that is both delicious and nourishing. Sweetgreen plants roots in each community by building a transparent supply chain, investing in local farmers and growers, and enhancing the total experience with innovative technology. Since opening its first 560-square-foot location in 2007, Sweetgreen has scaled to over 250 locations across the United States, and its vision is to lead the next generation of restaurants and lifestyle brands built on quality, community and innovation.
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Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Announces Leadership Transition
Apr 24, 2025, 08:00 ET
G.J. Hart to Step Down Following Transformative Tenure as President and Chief Executive Officer
Chairman David A. Pace Appointed as Successor
Anthony S. Ackil Appointed as Chairman of the Board
ENGLEWOOD, Colo., April 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (NASDAQ: RRGB) ("Red Robin" or the "Company"), a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere, today announced that G.J. Hart will step down as President and Chief Executive Officer. After five-and-a-half years with the Company and the successful implementation of measures to elevate the guest experience and transform Red Robin into an operations-focused restaurant company, Mr. Hart will now transition to serving the industry through his various board commitments and mentoring the next generation of industry leaders.
David A. Pace, who currently serves as Chairman of the Board, will succeed Mr. Hart as President and CEO, effective immediately. Mr. Pace is a seasoned industry leader who will be focused on leading the Company through the next phase of its transformation. Mr. Hart will serve in an advisory capacity through September of this year to support a smooth transition.
In connection with this transition, Anthony S. Ackil, who currently serves as a Director on the Board, will succeed Mr. Pace as Chairman, also effective immediately. Mr. Pace will remain a member of the Board.
"It has been a privilege to lead such an iconic brand over the last two-and-a-half years. Together we have made important strides in strengthening the essential foundation of great food and great service, and I look at our progress with immense pride," said Mr. Hart. "With key elements of the North Star plan now in place and as we close the books on another quarter of strong financial performance in the first quarter, we have reached a natural inflection point in Red Robin's transformation, and I am confident that the Company is in great hands with Dave to lead the next phase of this journey. Dave and I have built a trusted, long-standing relationship, and I know that his knowledge of our industry is second-to-none. I look forward to our continued collaboration throughout the transition period to best position the Company for its next chapter."
Mr. Pace has 35 years of leadership and turnaround experience in the food, beverage and retail industries. In addition to serving in multiple Board roles across our industry, he served as Co-CEO of Tastemaker Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company focused on the restaurant, hospitality and related technology and service sectors, from 2020 to 2023. Mr. Pace previously served as CEO of Jamba Juice Inc., where he led the brand through a highly successful repositioning and tripled profit performance, and as President of Carrabba's Italian Grill, where he oversaw broad operational changes, significant margin improvement and accelerated profit growth.
"We are confident in Dave's ability to step into the role of CEO at a pivotal time for Red Robin as we work to reaccelerate growth and deliver long-term, sustainable value for shareholders," said Allison Page, Chair of the Board's Nominating and Governance Committee. "Through his tenure on the Board, Dave has a deep understanding of our business and is ideally positioned to lead the Company through our ongoing transformation and beyond. The Board and I believe that the Company will benefit from Dave's extensive industry expertise as we continue to further strengthen our operations, in-restaurant guest experience and financial performance."
"I'm excited to be named CEO to capture the significant opportunities ahead for Red Robin," said Mr. Pace. "With a continued focus on delivering exceptional food and service and supporting our operators, I will be working with the team to enhance our marketing approach and re-invest in our facilities to increase guest engagement and grow traffic. Additionally, we will be working to build our overall financial strength, reduce our debt and increase our operating flexibility. At its core, the Red Robin business is strong, and through continued focus and execution, I am confident we will deliver significant value to our guests and shareholders."
"On behalf of the full Board, I want to thank G.J. for all that he has done for Red Robin during his tenure both as CEO and as a member of the Board," Mr. Pace continued. "Under G.J.'s leadership and the North Star plan, the Company has made critical investments in the quality of our offerings while also taking steps to reduce overall operating costs. His focus on improving hospitality and guest experience while building a winning culture has been integral to establishing the foundation upon which we can grow. We will continue to build upon the progress made under G.J.'s leadership, and I wish him all the best."
First Quarter 2025 Outlook
The Company expects first quarter comparable restaurant sales to increase approximately 3%, in-line with previously communicated expectations, and now expects Adjusted EBITDA to exceed the previously communicated first quarter range of $18 million to $19 million. The Company expects to report full first quarter results in late May.
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Charlie Morrison Appointed CEO of Jersey Mike’s
April 24, 2025
Distinguished Industry Veteran with a Sustained Track Record of Driving Growth at Wingstop and Other Global Restaurant Brands to Lead Company’s Next Chapter
Following Successful 50-Year Career Building Jersey Mike’s, Peter Cancro to Remain Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors and a Significant Minority Shareholder
Manasquan, NJ (RestaurantNews.com) Jersey Mike’s Subs (“Jersey Mike’s” or the “Company”), a leading franchisor of fast-casual sandwich shops known for its fresh sliced and fresh grilled subs, today announced the appointment of Charlie Morrison, an industry veteran who has driven long-term growth and international expansion at several of the world’s most recognizable restaurant brands, as Chief Executive Officer, effective April 28th, 2025.
As CEO of Jersey Mike’s, Morrison will build on the Company’s strong momentum and continue to accelerate its expansion in the U.S. and international markets, as well as its ongoing investment in technology and digital transformation. Having served in a range of senior leadership positions across high-profile franchised brands, Morrison brings more than three decades of industry experience to lead Jersey Mike’s continued growth. From 2012 to 2022, he served as Chairman and CEO of Wingstop, one of the largest fast-casual chicken wing franchise brands globally, where he was responsible for leading the strategic direction of the company and its global operations. At Wingstop, Morrison grew the business from fewer than 500 stores to over 2,000 locations in more than 10 countries, while more than doubling average unit volumes and leading the company through one of the most successful initial public offerings in the history of the restaurant industry. Most recently, he served as a board member and then as CEO of Salad and Go, helping drive a nearly seven-fold increase in the company’s store count. He previously held leadership roles at several other well-known restaurant brands, including Pizza Inn, where he served as President and CEO; Pizza Hut; Steak and Ale; and Boston Market.
Morrison succeeds Peter Cancro, who is stepping down from the CEO role 50 years after acquiring the Company’s first location in 1975. Cancro will remain Chairman of the Jersey Mike’s Board of Directors and a significant minority shareholder, and Nigel Travis has been named as Lead Director. Morrison will also serve on the Board of Directors for the Company.
Cancro said: “In Charlie, we have found the ideal next CEO for Jersey Mike’s, and I look forward to him propelling our business even further. Having led Wingstop through a monumental period of growth and a successful IPO, he knows what it takes to lead a first-of-its-kind, category-defining brand, and I am confident he will bring that same energy and vision to Jersey Mike’s. Importantly, he also shares our values and commitment to giving to the communities we serve. I am excited to work alongside Charlie and the rest of the team as we keep doing what we do best – making a sub above.”
Morrison said: “Jersey Mike’s is a unique brand with a rich history, loyal customer base and authentic culture which Peter and his talented team have cultivated over the past five decades. I have spent my career building and innovating at leading franchised brands, and what Peter has created at Jersey Mike’s is nothing short of extraordinary. I am honored to be entrusted with continuing this legacy and I could not be more excited to get to work with this incredible team and the owners who bring it to life every day. Together, we’ll focus on continuing to accelerate growth across new and existing markets and identifying opportunities to invest in additional technological advancements and innovation, while remaining true to the exceptional quality, service and community values that make Jersey Mike’s so beloved nationwide.”
Travis, Lead Director of Jersey Mike’s Board of Directors and former Chairman and CEO of Dunkin’ Brands, said: “I want to thank Peter for his tremendous leadership – his passion has shaped every store, inspired every owner and earned the loyalty of millions of customers nationwide. We look forward to continuing to benefit from his experience as Chairman of the Board and are thrilled to welcome Charlie as CEO. Charlie is a titan in the franchised restaurant space, with a proven value creation playbook for driving growth at leading brands – both through restaurants and digital channels.”
In 2024, Jersey Mike’s announced it was partnering with Blackstone to accelerate the Company’s global expansion and support its continued investment in technology and digital transformation.
Global Head of Private Equity Strategies at Blackstone, Joe Baratta, said: “With a wealth of experience in scaling leading franchise brands, Charlie is the ideal leader to build on Peter’s extraordinary foundation and take Jersey Mike’s into its next era of growth. We are excited to partner with Charlie and the entire Jersey Mike’s team to help propel expansion into new markets, unlock new opportunities for technology-driven transformation and further elevate the experiences of customers and franchisee owners alike.”
About Jersey Mike’s
Founded in 1956 as Mike’s Subs with one location in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Jersey Mike’s has grown into a premier franchisor with more than 3,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada. The Company has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing fast-casual restaurant chains in America, ranking #2 on Entrepreneur’s 2024 Franchise 500 and #10 on Yelp’s 2024 List of Fastest Growing Brands. Giving back is also core to Jersey Mike’s mission, and the Company was recognized on Forbes’ inaugural Best Brands for Social Impact List in 2023. In March 2025, the Company completed its 15th Annual Month of Giving, raising a record breaking $30 million and surpassing more than $143 million given to over 200 local charities since it began the tradition in 2011, reinforcing its commitment to being a beloved brand in communities across the country. Jersey Mike’s has also been ranked as the #1 Best Sandwich Chain in America in 2024 by Eat This, Not That! For more information, please visit JerseyMikes.com.
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Salad and Go Names Mike Tattersfield as New CEO
Apr 22, 2025, 09:05 ET
Fast-growing drive-thru salad concept taps former Krispy Kreme CEO to lead next phase of expansion
DALLAS, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Salad and Go, the one-of-a-kind salad chain on a mission to make nutritious food accessible for everyone, has appointed Mike Tattersfield as its new CEO, effective immediately.
Tattersfield, who is now a minority owner of the brand, brings over 30 years of retail and restaurant industry leadership experience to the expanding drive-thru-only salad concept. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of Krispy Kreme for nearly a decade. Other top roles included CEO of Caribou Coffee Company and Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, president at YUM! Brands and COO at Lululemon.
"Salad and Go has built something special — it's creating a new paradigm for fast food that makes quality, nutritious food accessible for everyone, regardless of income or ZIP code," said Tattersfield. "I took on this role because I believe we can be a positive, disruptive force in every food category we choose to compete in, revolutionizing how Americans think about fast food."
Salad and Go has transformed the quick-service restaurant industry with its unique centralized kitchen model, which allows the company to offer fresh, made-to-order salads for under $8 through drive-thru-only locations as small as 750 square feet, eliminating the conflict between affordability and accessibility to healthy meals. Menu innovation remains at the forefront of the brand as it provides healthy, approachable options, including salads, wraps, juices and breakfast, that appeal to a wide customer base.
The concept recently earned a spot on Fast Company's prestigious "Most Innovative Companies in Restaurants, Dining, and Food Services for 2025" list, highlighting Salad and Go's impact on the industry as it makes nutritious food more accessible.
"Mike is exactly the proven leader we need to unlock Salad and Go's full potential," said Florian van Rappard, Salad and Go director and partner at lead shareholder Volt Investment Holdings. "His mission-driven orientation and track record of brand building at multiple successful companies make him the ideal person to guide Salad and Go through its next chapter of growth and impact."
Currently operating more than 140 stores across Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma and Nevada, Salad and Go has nearly doubled its physical footprint over the past two years while building the necessary team, systems and infrastructure for scaled growth. In 2024, the company opened its largest central kitchen facility in Garland, Texas, which can support up to 500 locations within a 12-hour drive.
For more information about Salad and Go, visit www.saladandgo.com.
About Salad and Go
Salad and Go was founded on the belief that everyone deserves delicious and healthy food. Our unique model leverages Central Kitchens to bring recipes from our very own Michelin-star trained chef, including made-to-order salads, wraps and breakfast burritos, directly to you — all at an unheard-of affordable price point. Salad and Go operates more than 140 locations across Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma and Nevada and is expanding rapidly, with delivery and catering options available. As part of our mission, Salad and Go puts emphasis on community outreach and philanthropic initiatives. Our company culture that prioritizes innovation was recognized as No. 5 on Fast Company's 2025 Most Innovative Companies in Restaurants, Dining and Food Service, a distinction honoring organizations that are taking the lead in creating new experiences and technology in the restaurant industry. Our one-of-a-kind model is fundamentally changing food systems and igniting a positive, life-changing movement toward better food for all. To learn more about Salad and Go, visit https://www.saladandgo.com/.
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