Executive Movements - July 2025
Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill CEO Greg Willman Announces His Departure, Current CFO Grady Metoyer will take over on an interim basis
Jul 14, 2025, 09:11 ET
CHICAGO, July 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill announced today that CEO Greg Willman has notified the board of his intent to retire from his executive role at Naf Naf Grill.
Willman joined Naf Naf in 2019 as the brand's first franchisee, bringing the fast-casual Middle Eastern concept to Indianapolis and Carmel, Indiana, where Mr. Willman resides. He was named CEO and appointed to the Board of Directors in 2020, later becoming Board Chair.
Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill CEO Greg Willman will retire from his executive role. CFO Grady Metoyer named interim CEO
Under his leadership, Naf Naf has experienced consistent growth and national recognition. The brand was featured on Fast Casual Magazine's "Movers and Shakers" list in 2021, 2024, and 2025 — securing the #39 spot on the most recent list. In 2022, Willman was honored on Nation's Restaurant News' Power List of Most Influential CEOs. Most recently, Naf Naf earned a spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies.
"I've enjoyed my time at Naf Naf immensely and I am very excited about the brand's future," said Willman. "I look forward to working with the board and our team over the next two months, in an advisory capacity, to support Grady in this new, well-deserved, role. Thereafter, I will remain active as a board member and investor in the company."
"I am humbled and excited to be named as the interim CEO of Naf Naf Holdings, LLC."- said Metoyer. "I look forward to working with Greg, the board and our team in creating a seamless hand-off of the CEO role and smooth continuation of the strong momentum in the brand."
Metoyer is a finance and operations leader with over 25 years of executive level experience in the food and beverage industry with eight years as the CFO of Naf Naf. Prior to Naf Naf, he was Vice President of Finance for Sysco and the Executive Vice President of SYGMA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sysco. Metoyer also served as Vice President of Finance and Administration for Food Brand, LLC, a restaurant company that owned and operated over 100 fast casual restaurants mostly in malls and airports.
About Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill
Naf Naf is making fresh Middle Eastern cuisine a mainstream favorite across the United States. Inspired by tradition, Naf's genuine hospitality paired with handmade dishes derived from Old World recipes creates a welcoming atmosphere where guests are invited to fan the flame of culinary exploration. Every order is customized to the guest's liking with choices of top-quality meats, like its award-winning Chicken Shawarma roasted on a vertical spit, to hand made falafel and pillowy pita baked in-restaurant throughout the day. Naf is headquartered in Chicago with 39 locations nationwide. For more information, visit nafnafgrill.com.
View source version at Naf Naf Grill
Edible Brands Names Hospitality Veteran Matthew Walls President and Chief Stores Officer
Jul 15, 2025, 09:41 ET
Veteran Franchise Executive to Drive Company Innovation, Franchisee Performance, and Strategic Growth
Walls Brings Extensive Industry Experience and a Passion for Purpose-Driven Leadership
New Executive Appointment Comes Amid Brand Renewal and Expansion Across Portfolio
ATLANTA, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Edible Brands®, the parent company of Edible Arrangements®, Roti Modern Mediterranean®, and Edibles.com, announces the appointment of seasoned restaurant and franchising leader Matthew Walls as President and Chief Stores Officer. A seasoned executive with extensive experience across operations, development, technology, and general management, Walls will play a critical role in driving innovation, empowering franchisees, and elevating all three of the brand's core businesses.
"This is a team that sees possibility first and says 'yes' to growth."
Walls brings a people-first leadership approach rooted in years of experience across both global corporations and entrepreneurial franchise systems.
Walls brings a people-first leadership approach rooted in years of experience across both global corporations and entrepreneurial franchise systems. His background spans a variety of disciplines, from logistics and business intelligence to domestic and international growth, equipping him with a broad, strategic lens for scaling complex businesses. Prior to joining Edible Brands, Walls held executive roles at major franchise brands, including Domino's, CKE Restaurants, and Caribou Coffee, where he earned a reputation for aligning cross-functional teams and relentlessly focusing on franchisee profitability.
"What drew me to Edible wasn't just the strength of its portfolio, but the caliber of the team behind it," said Walls. "This is a team that sees possibility first and says 'yes' to growth – we embrace innovation, celebrate progress, and are unified in our mission. With a renewed vision for expansion and a strong foundation already in place, we have an incredible opportunity to build something lasting together."
As President and CSO, Walls will oversee the company's day-to-day operations, development, and strategic initiatives across Edible Arrangements, Roti, and Edibles.com. His early priorities include refining team structure, aligning leadership around a shared vision, and placing an unwavering emphasis on franchisee performance. Walls believes profitability is the engine that powers everything else – when franchisees win, the brand wins.
"Matthew's ability to balance big picture thinking with operational discipline makes him the right leader at the right time," said Somia Farid Silber, CEO of Edible Brands. "His franchise-first mindset, coupled with decades of experience across high-growth environments, will help Edible Brands thrive as we enter our next chapter."
Walls' appointment signals a bold step forward as Edible Brands accelerates its efforts to rejuvenate legacy brands and introduce new growth vehicles across wellness, foodservice, and retail. Under the leadership of CEO Somia Farid Silber, who took the helm in 2024, the company has entered a new phase of momentum, blending its iconic roots with a forward-looking, franchisee-first approach. Most recently, the company acquired Roti Modern Mediterranean, a beloved fast-casual concept with strong consumer demand and national growth potential. As the brand enters its next phase under Edible Brands, exciting opportunities are on the horizon, aimed at bringing Roti to more communities and expanding ways entrepreneurs can engage with the Edible Brands portfolio.
For more information on franchising opportunities with Edible Brands, visit https://franchise.edible.com/.
About Edible Brands®
Atlanta-based Edible Brands® acquires, develops and manages a world-class portfolio of consumer brands renowned in the hospitality and foodservice sectors. Edible Brands has skillfully integrated an innovative e-commerce platform with a robust network of locally owned stores worldwide to meet consumers where they are. Edible Brands' growing portfolio includes Edible Arrangements®, edibles.com®, freshfruit.com™ and Rōti® Modern Mediterranean. For more information, visit ediblebrands.com.
View source version at Edible Brands
Wendy’s Appoints Ken Cook as Interim CEO
Jul 08, 2025, 08:45 ET
Kirk Tanner to Depart Wendy's for CEO Role at The Hershey Company
DUBLIN, Ohio, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) today announced that Kirk Tanner, President and Chief Executive Officer, is leaving to become the President and CEO at The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) and will depart The Wendy's Company effective July 18, 2025. Wendy's Board of Directors has launched a comprehensive search process to select a permanent CEO.
The Board has appointed Ken Cook, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, as Interim CEO. Cook, who remains CFO, played a major role in developing Wendy's long-term growth strategy. Prior to joining the Company, Cook spent 20 years at United Parcel Service, Inc. in roles of increasing responsibility, including having most recently served as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis. Prior to that, he served as Chief Financial Officer for the $60 billion U.S. Domestic segment of UPS.
Art Winkleblack, Chairman of the Board, said, "Our senior leadership team has established a very clear strategic blueprint for growth and is already beginning to execute on this strategy. We are grateful to Ken for accepting the role of interim CEO and have the utmost confidence in him and the senior leadership team to lead the Company and to continue to execute on our growth plan."
"I look forward to executing on the strategic priorities we shared at our Investor Day: providing fresh, famous food, delivering an exceptional customer experience, and accelerating global net unit growth," said Cook. "We have a strong team and the right strategy in place to create value for our customers, franchisees, employees and shareholders."
Winkleblack added, "We understand Kirk's decision to return to the consumer-packaged goods industry and wish him well in leading Hershey."
"It has been a privilege to lead Wendy's, an iconic brand, and I leave with a sense of gratitude for our employees and franchisees who make the Company a truly special place," said Tanner. "The brand is of the highest quality in the quick service restaurant industry, and I believe there is tremendous growth potential ahead for all Wendy's stakeholders."
In addition, the Company announced that Bradley G. Peltz has been elected to serve as a director of the Company and will replace Matthew H. Peltz, who has resigned from the Board, effective today, to devote more time to his other commitments. Winkleblack said, "We are grateful to Matt for his many contributions to Wendy's over the years. We have made tremendous progress as a brand since Matt joined the Board, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors." Winkleblack also said, "We are excited to have Brad join our Board. Brad is a Managing Director of Yellow Cab Holdings, a Wendy's franchisee with restaurants in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. His creativity and connection to our customers and franchise community will provide valuable insights to Wendy's."
The Wendy's Company is scheduled to release its second quarter 2025 results on August 8, 2025.
View source version at Wendy’s
Krispy Kreme Appoints Raphael Duvivier as Chief Financial Officer
Jul 3, 2025 8:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Company Remains Committed to Goal of Achieving Sustainable, Profitable Growth
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Krispy Kreme, Inc. (NASDAQ: DNUT) (“Krispy Kreme” or the “Company”) today announced that Raphael Duvivier, President, International of Krispy Kreme, has been named Chief Financial Officer, effective July 11, 2025. Mr. Duvivier succeeds Jeremiah Ashukian, who decided to leave the Company to pursue an opportunity with a private company.
Since joining Krispy Kreme in 2019, Mr. Duvivier has held multiple leadership roles at the Company, including segment Chief Financial and Strategy Officer, International, and Chief Development Officer, leading international development, strategy, finance, and operations. He previously held various senior leadership positions in global finance, development, and operations at Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE: QSR). Prior to that, he held leadership positions at Opus Investimentos. Mr. Duvivier has over 20 years of global experience across finance, strategy, and operations.
“Raphael has been a respected leader at Krispy Kreme for over six years, and his deep understanding of the Company coupled with his strong finance background will enable a smooth transition as we focus on achieving sustainable, profitable growth,” said Josh Charlesworth, Krispy Kreme CEO. “I am excited to partner even more closely with Raphael and believe his experience, expertise, and leadership style will be a huge benefit as he assumes the role of Chief Financial Officer.”
Additionally, Chief Product Officer Alison Holder has been promoted to Chief Brand and Product Officer effective July 11, 2025, assuming responsibility for the Company’s global marketing initiatives. Ms. Holder has over 25 years of experience with Krispy Kreme, including as Senior Director of Consumer Insights, and has led brand marketing, innovation, research & development, and manufacturing services. She succeeds Chief Growth Officer David Skena who decided to leave the Company to pursue another opportunity.
“We thank Jeremiah and Dave for their contributions over the last several years and wish them both well in their new endeavors,” added Mr. Charlesworth. “I have the utmost confidence in Raphael, Alison, and the rest of our strong team to help drive Krispy Kreme forward as we pursue U.S. expansion through high-volume retail points of distribution and capital-light international franchise growth.”
About Krispy Kreme
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Krispy Kreme is one of the most beloved and well-known sweet treat brands in the world. Our iconic Original Glazed® doughnut is universally recognized for its hot-off-the-line, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Krispy Kreme operates in more than 40 countries through its unique network of fresh doughnut shops, partnerships with leading retailers, and a rapidly growing digital business. Our purpose of touching and enhancing lives through the joy that is Krispy Kreme guides how we operate every day and is reflected in the love we have for our people, our communities, and the planet. Connect with Krispy Kreme Doughnuts at KrispyKreme.com and follow us on social: X, Instagram and Facebook.
View source version at Krispy Kreme
Newk’s Eatery Welcomes Back Industry Veteran Chris Cheek as Chief Development Officer
July 2, 2025
Returning to the brand he helped grow, Cheek brings a renewed vision for franchise development, site selection and strategic expansion as Newk’s prepares for its next chapter.
Jackson, MS (RestaurantNews.com) Newk’s Eatery, the fast-casual brand known for craveable, made-from-scratch food and category-defining menu innovation, has announced the return of Chris Cheek as chief development officer. A familiar face with deep ties to the brand, Cheek previously served in the same role from 2014 to 2019 – a period of strong growth during which the brand doubled in size.
“I was Newk’s very first chief development officer back in 2014,” said Cheek. “During this time, the brand experienced tremendous growth due to our team, our menu and a focus on hospitality. I left in 2019 for another opportunity, but Newk’s has always felt like home.”
Following his recent stint as CDO at Modern Market Eatery, Cheek took time to explore his next move before returning to Newk’s in 2025. The brand, now backed by CapitalSpring and part of the FSC Franchise Co. portfolio alongside Beef ‘O’ Brady’s and The Brass Tap, offered the right mix of timing, team and untapped potential.
“What brought me back is that Newk’s has a stellar leadership team and a menu that’s meaningfully different from anything else in the fast-casual space,” Cheek said. “We serve proteins others won’t touch – such as shrimp and salmon – and we make our salad dressings from scratch. That translates to a stronger guest experience and the potential for attractive unit-level economics for franchisees.”
In his new role, Cheek will focus on driving franchise growth through both new development and support for existing operators.
“Our franchisees are awesome,” he said. “Many of them are the same great partners I worked with before, and I’m excited to help them grow. But to reach our full potential, we also need to build a forward-looking pipeline of new franchisees. That’s my top priority – finding strong operators who believe in the product and the brand as much as I do.”
Cheek also noted Newk’s growing capabilities in site selection and flexibility in real estate. The brand has evolved to accommodate a wider range of restaurant footprints, including second-generation space conversions and drive-thru buildouts.
“When I left in 2019, we had just opened our first or second drive-thru,” Cheek said. “Now, we’ve opened multiple drive-thru restaurants, including one our most recent McGee, Mississippi. We’ve also gotten really good at converting existing restaurant space – Pascagoula, Mississippi, for example, was a former IHOP that we turned around in under eight weeks. That kind of agility creates more opportunity in more markets.”
Looking ahead, Cheek sees significant growth potential for Newk’s in small and mid-sized markets across the U.S.
“We’re sitting at almost 100 restaurants, which means we’re proven, but there’s still a lot of white space,” he said. “We’ve done really well in smaller markets where we often become a local destination. There are hundreds of places where Newk’s can grow – especially east of the Mississippi – and the brand’s flexible format gives us the ability to scale smartly.”
Frank Paci, CEO of Newk’s Eatery, expressed his enthusiasm about Cheek’s return.
“Chris brings unmatched knowledge of the Newk’s brand and a deep understanding of the restaurant and franchising space,” Paci said. “He knows how to build relationships, identify growth opportunities and deliver results. We’re thrilled to welcome him back and confident that his leadership will guide Newk’s into its next phase of growth.”
With the support of CapitalSpring and the broader FSC team, Cheek says the brand is poised for strong and sustainable expansion.
“Having CapitalSpring as a sponsor is a huge asset,” said Cheek. “They know the restaurant space from both the franchisor and franchisee sides, and their resources and insight will help us do this the right way.”
For more information on franchising opportunities with Newk’s Eatery, visit Newks.com/franchise/.
About Newk’s Eatery
Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi, Newk’s Eatery is a fast-casual restaurant brand known for its signature hospitality and scratch-made meals. With nearly 100 locations across 12 states, Newk’s offers a diverse menu of hand-crafted salads, sandwiches, soups, and pizzas – all made in-house with fresh, premium ingredients and without the use of fryers or microwaves. Guests can also enjoy convenient grab-and-go options and mobile ordering through the Newk’s app, available on Google Play and the App Store, for curbside, in-store pickup, or delivery.
Newk’s has earned national recognition from Nation’s Restaurant News, Restaurant Business, and Entrepreneur, and continues to be celebrated for food quality and guest loyalty. To learn more, visit Newks.com, join the Newk’s Rewards program, or follow along on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. For franchise opportunities, visit Newks.com/franchise/.
View source version at Newk’s Eatery
Melting Pot Names New CEO, Celebrates 50th Anniversary With Continued Growth and Leadership Promotions
July 1, 2025
The premier fondue franchise is building on its 50th anniversary with expanded leadership roles, new development deals and a continued focus on brand evolution.
Tampa, FL (RestaurantNews.com) Melting Pot continues to celebrate its 50th year as the premier fondue dining experience, the brand is carrying its momentum into the second half of 2025 with the appointment of a new CEO, several internal leadership promotions and new franchise agreements in key markets.
John “JC” Crawford has been named CEO of Melting Pot after serving as executive vice president of operations. He succeeds longtime CEO and founder Bob Johnston, who now serves solely as chairman of the board. Johnston remains an owner and continues to support the brand’s long-term growth and strategic direction.
“This is a brand that has been a part of people’s lives for five decades, and I’m honored to help lead it into its next chapter,” Crawford said. “We have a talented leadership team, incredible franchise partners and a guest experience that’s unlike anything else in the industry. As we look ahead, we’re focused on operational excellence, innovative growth strategies and ensuring every guest enjoys the perfect night out.”
Crawford joined Melting Pot in March 2020, bringing operational leadership experience from brands including Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Bennigan’s. His work in franchise support and brand transformation has helped strengthen Melting Pot’s system and position it for continued growth.
“We’re building on our legacy with fresh momentum,” Crawford said. “Even though Melting Pot has been delivering unforgettable dining experiences for 50 years, we’re actively evolving – from restaurant design to training, technology and operations. This next phase of growth is about honoring what makes the brand special while building for the future.”
As part of its continued investment in leadership, Melting Pot also announced a series of internal promotions and title changes across its executive team.
Randy Barnett was promoted from vice president of technology to chief technology officer.
Mike Mobley was promoted from vice president of people to chief talent officer.
Matt Zurcher was promoted from director to vice president of franchise and restaurant operations and added to the leadership team.
Dan Stone’s title changed from chief operating and development officer to chief business officer.
Ana Malmqvist’s title changed from chief marketing officer to chief brand officer.
Scott Pierce, chief financial officer, remains a member of the leadership team.
“These changes reflect the strength and depth of our internal talent,” Crawford said. “We’re building a best in class leadership structure that will support franchisees, team members and guests for decades to come.”
Melting Pot also signed two new franchise agreements in the first half of 2025. The brand will open in North Dallas, Texas, with new franchisees Dan and Tracie Greene, and in Syracuse, New York, with an existing franchisee group leading development.
The signings follow the launch of Melting Pot’s 50th anniversary celebration in April, which featured limited-time menu offerings such as the Grand Reserve Cheese Fondue and renewed emphasis on the brand’s core identity as the destination for the Perfect Night Out®.
Melting Pot also continues its decades-long commitment to community involvement through its partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The brand’s Thanks and Giving campaign has raised over $18 million dollars for the charity over the past 20 years.
To fuel continued expansion, Melting Pot will launch a new franchise incentive program on July 1. As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, the brand is offering a Golden Anniversary Incentive: the first five new-construction franchise agreements signed beginning July 1, 2025, will receive 50% off the Initial Franchise Fee – a savings of $22,500. This special offer is available through March 31, 2026, or until five qualifying agreements are signed, whichever comes first. The incentive applies exclusively to new builds and cannot be combined with other programs, such as the IFA’s VetFran or DiversityFran initiatives.
As Melting Pot continues its momentum, the brand is seeking franchisees ready to build on its 50-year legacy, with a special focus on strategic growth in key markets such as Texas, Florida, Michigan, California, and Tennessee.
To learn more about franchising with Melting Pot, visit MeltingPotFranchise.com.
About Melting Pot
Founded in 1975, Melting Pot has offered a unique fondue dining experience for more than 50 years. As the premier fondue restaurant franchise, Melting Pot has 92 restaurants in 31 U.S. states and Canada. Known for offering a variety of fondue cooking styles and unique entrées, Melting Pot’s menu also features cheese fondues, salads, fine wines, spirits and chocolate fondue desserts. Fondue fans can join Melting Pot’s Club Fondue for exclusive promotions, special events and advance holiday reservation privileges. Melting Pot is an affiliate of The Melting Pot Inc. (TMPRI), a restaurant management company headquartered in Tampa, Florida. For more information, visit MeltingPot.com. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Melting Pot, please visit MeltingPotFranchise.com.
View source version at Melting Pot
Domino's Pizza® Elects Stephen Kramer to Board of Directors
Jun 30, 2025, 16:15 ET
ANN ARBOR, Mich., June 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Domino's Pizza, Inc. (Nasdaq: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world, today announced the election of Stephen H. Kramer to its Board of Directors.
"We are thrilled to welcome Stephen to the Domino's Board of Directors," said David Brandon, Domino's Executive Chairman. "We are confident he will bring valuable insights and outstanding experience to our board. We look forward to the contributions Stephen will make as we work with our outstanding leadership team to achieve the goals and aspirations embodied in our Hungry for MORE strategy."
Kramer currently serves as President, Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc. (NYSE: BFAM). He has served as CEO and board member since January 2018 and as President since January 2016. Kramer joined Bright Horizons in September 2006 through the acquisition of College Coach, a company he co-founded. Earlier in his career, Kramer worked at Fidelity Ventures and Arthur D. Little.
"I am honored to serve on the Domino's Board and excited to work with fellow directors and the talented leadership team to achieve Domino's strategic priorities and long-term goals," said Kramer. "Domino's is a people-first business powered by what is possible when you focus on culture, innovation, integrity and community. It is inspiring to see the global impact the brand has made for customers, franchisees and employees."
About Domino's Pizza®
Founded in 1960, Domino's Pizza is the largest pizza company in the world, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout. It ranks among the world's top public restaurant brands with a global enterprise of more than 21,300 stores in over 90 markets. Domino's had global retail sales of over $19.2 billion in the trailing four quarters ended March 23, 2025. Its system is comprised of independent franchise owners who accounted for 99% of Domino's stores as of the end of the first quarter of 2025. In the U.S., Domino's generated more than 85% of U.S. retail sales in 2024 via digital channels and has developed many innovative ordering platforms.
View source version at Domino’s
Panera Bread Creates Transformation & Strategy Office and Announces Nikka Copeland as Senior Vice President
Jun 25, 2025 8:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time
ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast casual restaurant industry, today announced Nikka Copeland has joined as Senior Vice President of the newly created Office of Transformation & Strategy. In this role, Copeland will manage the strategic execution of Panera’s three-year growth plan, driving business model clarity that will be instrumental as the company transforms for sustained performance and growth. Copeland joined the Panera Executive Team on June 24, reporting to CEO Paul Carbone.
A respected transformation strategist and thought partner, Copeland brings a strong track record of leading complex global transformations, unlocking performance and scaling growth throughout more than 20 years of experience across multiple industries including food service. She is known for leading enterprise-wide initiatives, aligning people, process and technology around strategic outcomes to foster high-performing cultures.
“I look forward to working closely with Nikka as we develop and execute our strategic plan to build a culture of highly engaged and empowered teams, deliver an exceptional guest experience and increase franchisee profitability,” said Paul Carbone, Chief Executive Officer, Panera Bread. “Nikka brings a wealth of experience in finance, strategy and operations that will prove invaluable as we create the blueprint to scale and grow Panera for the future.”
Most recently, Copeland served as SVP, Business Services Domain Lead at World Kinect, a leader in the global energy industry. Prior to that, she was World Kinect’s SVP, Finance. She also held finance and strategy positions at National Grid, Aflac and Burger King Corp. Copeland received a bachelor’s degree in economics from Univerzitet ‘Sv. Kiril I Metódiji’ vo Skopje in the Republic of North Macedonia, a master’s in business administration from University of Oklahoma, and is a graduate of the advanced management program at Harvard Business School.
“I’m excited to join Panera at a time of such remarkable growth potential and to work alongside a talented team to drive meaningful change that brings purpose and strategy together into action,” said Nikka Copeland, SVP, Office of Transformation & Strategy, Panera Bread. “Together, we will focus on delivering a great guest experience, high-quality food and good value to accelerate Panera’s momentum and transform the company for sustained growth and profitability.”
About Panera Bread
Our first cafe opened in 1987, founded with a secret sourdough starter and the belief that the best part of bread is sharing it. That vision led to the invention of the Fast Casual category with Panera at the forefront, serving as America's kitchen table centered around our delicious menu of chef-curated recipes that are crafted with care by our team members. We make food that we are proud to serve our own families, from crave-worthy soups, salads and sandwiches to mac & cheese and sweets. Each recipe is filled with ingredients we feel good about and none of those we don't because we are committed to serving our guests food that feels good in the moment and long after. While our company is now more than 2,200 cafes strong, our values and belief in the lasting power of a great meal remain as strong as ever. We spend each day filling bellies, building empowered teams and inspiring communities. Nothing beats breaking bread together.
As of June 3, 2025 there were 2,197 cafes, company and franchise, in 48 states and Washington D.C., and in Ontario, Canada, operating under the Panera Bread® or Saint Louis Bread Co.® names. Panera Bread is part of Panera Brands, one of the largest fast casual restaurant companies in the U.S., comprised of Panera Bread®, Caribou Coffee® and Einstein Bros.® Bagels. For more information, visit panerabread.com or find us on X (@panerabread), Facebook (facebook.com/panerabread) Instagram (@panerabread) or TikTok (@panerabread).
View source version at Panera Bread
Jack in the Box Inc. Welcomes Back Shannon McKinney as New Chief Operating Officer
Jun 24, 2025 4:30 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Shannon McKinney served as vice president of operations and brand performance from March 2019 to August 2021.
Shannon McKinney, Chief Operating Officer, Jack in the Box Inc.
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ: JACK) is pleased to announce the return of Shannon McKinney as senior vice president, chief operating officer and new member of the executive leadership team.
McKinney brings more than 25 years of restaurant industry experience with a deep understanding of driving operational efficiency and a proven track record of developing high-performance teams and delivering best-in-class team member and guest experiences. He started out his quick-service and fast-casual restaurant operations career in various operations leadership roles at Taco Bell, followed by serving as senior director of training & field implementation for Outback Steakhouse, vice president of operations at Crispers, Fresh Alternatives, LLC, and vice president of franchise business management at Bloomin’ Brands. After working at Jack in the Box from March 2019 to August 2021 as vice president of operations and brand performance, he most recently served as regional vice president of operations and vice president of operations, PLK, America at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen.
Ryan Ostrom, Jack in the Box chief customer & digital officer, will continue to lead the broader customer experience and strategy. McKinney joins Ostrom’s team to drive operational excellence and scale execution across the Jack in the Box system. “As COO, Shannon will oversee Jack’s operations team, with a focus on strengthening the core of our business to deliver great experiences for both our team members and our guests,” said Ostrom. “Those who have worked with Shannon in the past describe him as a hands-on leader who listens first, positively leads and influences with purpose, and empowers his team, which are qualities that make him a strong fit for our culture and the reason why we are excited to have him back.”
“I am so excited to step into this role as Jack’s chief operating officer,” said McKinney. “I look forward to helping the brand reach a higher level of quality, while partnering with Ryan to unlock growth by delivering consistent, craveable guest experiences that keep our brand top of mind and drive long-term loyalty.”
About Jack in the Box Inc.
Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ: JACK), founded and headquartered in San Diego, California, is a restaurant company that operates and franchises Jack in the Box®, one of the nation's largest hamburger chains with approximately 2,180 restaurants across 22 states, and Del Taco®, the second largest Mexican-American QSR chain by units in the U.S. with approximately 590 restaurants across 17 states. For more information on both brands, including franchising opportunities, visit www.jackinthebox.com and www.deltaco.com.
View source version at Jack in the Box
Rafael Sanchez Joins Bloomin’ Brands as Chief Information Officer
Jun 24, 2025 4:05 PM Eastern Daylight Time
TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: BLMN) announced the appointment of Rafael Sanchez as Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer. Sanchez joins the company from Davidson Hospitality Group where he served as Senior Vice President of Information Technology. His appointment is effective June 30, 2025.
“Rafael has a strong history in out-of-home entertainment and restaurants,” said Mike Spanos, CEO of Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. “He is a strong leader that focuses on the team members and guests.”
Before joining Davidson Hospitality Group, Sanchez served as a Senior Technology Advisor and Interim CIO, leading digital transformation initiatives across various industries. He was previously CIO at Six Flags and Feld Entertainment, and held senior roles at LikeWize, Carnival Corporation, and Burger King, driving enterprise modernization, M&A integration, cybersecurity enhancements, and has led technology integration into the guest experience.
Sanchez holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Louisiana State University.
About Bloomin’ Brands, Inc.
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. is one of the largest casual dining restaurant companies in the world with a portfolio of leading, differentiated restaurant concepts. The Company’s restaurant portfolio includes Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar. The Company owns, operates or franchises more than 1,450 restaurants in 46 states, Guam and 13 countries, some of which are franchise locations. For more information, please visit bloominbrands.com.
View source version at Bloomin’ Brands
