Executive Movements - April 2026
Jack in the Box Inc. Advances Board Refreshment with Appointment of Eduardo Luz
Apr 13, 2026 4:10 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Accomplished Restaurant Executive Joins as Independent Director to Support Transformation
David Goebel and Madeleine Kleiner to Retire from the Board
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jack in the Box Inc. (“Jack in the Box” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: JACK) today announced that Eduardo Luz has been appointed to its Board of Directors (the “Board”) as an independent director. The Company also announced that David Goebel and Madeleine Kleiner will retire from the Board, effective May 8, 2026.
With these actions, the Board will reduce its size to nine members. Mr. Luz joins as part of Jack in the Box’s continued focus on maintaining a best-in-class Board, which has resulted in significant refreshment over the past year. The Board will continue to evaluate opportunities for additional refreshment to ensure its composition and skillsets continue to reflect the evolving needs of the business.
“We are pleased to welcome Eduardo to Jack in the Box’s Board. Eduardo is an accomplished restaurant industry executive with significant leadership and brand-building experience that will be an important asset as we continue to advance Jack in the Box’s transformation,” said Mark King, Independent Chair of the Board. “Today’s announcement reflects our commitment to continued Board refreshment along with thoughtful engagement with our shareholders and responsiveness to their feedback. We continue to see significant opportunity for value creation at Jack in the Box and have full confidence in our ability to drive same-store sales, reduce debt, and improve margins.”
Mr. King continued, “I also want to thank Dave and Madi for their service and contributions to Jack in the Box. They have both been valued members of the Board, and we wish them the best.”
"I am thrilled to join the Board and advance Jack in the Box’s transformation," said Mr. Luz. "Jack in the Box has a strong brand and a proven commitment to innovate for its guests. I look forward to partnering with the Board and management team to build on the company’s momentum and drive long-term growth.”
About Eduardo Luz
Mr. Luz has over 30 years of experience building and growing businesses and brands across the restaurant and consumer goods industries, with global expertise in scaled platforms. Mr. Luz most recently served as CEO of P. F. Chang’s, where he drove performance through streamlined operations, investment in digital capabilities, and value-oriented offerings that enhanced the global guest experience. Prior to P. F. Chang’s, Mr. Luz served as Chief Brand and Concept Officer at Panera Bread, leading brand strategy and integrated digital, marketing, and menu innovation functions. Earlier in his career, Mr. Luz served as Zone President, North America and President, Grocery business unit at The Kraft Heinz Company. Mr. Luz started his career as a management consultant at Accenture and holds an MBA from The Wharton School.
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 2,125 restaurants across 22 states. For more information, including franchising opportunities, visit www.jackinthebox.com.
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Denny’s Names Christopher Bode President and Chief Executive Officer
Bode to Lead Denny’s Transformation with New “Project Grand Slam” Strategic Growth Initiative
April 13, 2026 13:00 ET
SPARTANBURG, S.C., April 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Denny’s, America’s Diner, announced today Christopher Bode as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Bode will lead the iconic brand’s transformation with the launch of “Project Grand Slam,” a new, comprehensive 24-month strategic roadmap to modernize the business trajectory through culinary innovation, digital transformation and a renewed commitment to operational excellence.
Bode is a seasoned executive with over three decades of leadership experience in the restaurant industry and a veteran of the United States Navy. Most recently he served as Denny’s President and Chief Operating Officer.
"I am honored to lead this iconic brand into its next chapter," said Bode. "As we’ve transitioned from a public to a private company, we’ve approached our path forward with real examination, real adjustments and a clearer focus on the things that actually move performance in our restaurants. We are operating in a difficult economic environment, but private ownership gives us more freedom to look at the business honestly, move faster where change is needed and make adjustments quickly. I am confident that we have the right plan in place to emerge as real winners.”
A Proven Leader for a New Era of Growth
Bode’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as Denny’s transitions from a public company to a private entity. With a history of outperforming the family dining category in 30 of 45 quarters during his previous tenure as Chief Operating Officer, Bode brings an unparalleled depth of operational knowledge and a consistent track record of driving record-breaking valuation growth.
"Chris is a transformational leader who understands the heart and soul of this brand and the discipline required to run a global franchise system," said Anil Yadav, Chief Transformation Officer and Interim CEO. "His ability to bridge the gap between high-level corporate strategy and 'boots-on-the-ground' execution is exactly what we need to accelerate our growth. We are fully aligned in our vision to make Denny’s the undisputed leader in the family dining space once again.”
Introducing Project Grand Slam: A 24-Month Roadmap
Under Bode’s leadership, Denny’s will focus on several key pillars to evolve the guest experience and maximize brand reach, including:
Culinary & Flavor Innovation
Enhanced Daypart Beverage Program
Catering & Bulk Solutions
America’s Diner 2.0 Remodels
Retail Brand Expansion
Digital Transformation
“With Project Grand Slam, we aren't just changing the menu, we are changing our trajectory. We are going to innovate in the kitchen, lean into the massive opportunity in catering and ensure our franchise partners have the support they need to deliver four-wall excellence every single day,” said Bode. “The future of Denny's is about being where our guests are – whether that’s in our dining rooms, through our mobile app or on their grocery shelves."
About Denny's Corp.
Denny's is a Spartanburg, S.C. - based family dining restaurant brand that has been welcoming guests to our booths for more than 70 years. Our guiding principle is simple: We love to feed people. Denny’s provides craveable meals at a meaningful value across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night. Whether it's at our brick-and-mortar locations, via Denny's on Demand (the first delivery platform in the family dining segment), or at The Meltdown, Banda Burrito, and The Burger Den, our three virtual restaurant concepts, Denny’s is ready to delight guests whenever and however they want to order. Our longstanding commitment to supporting our local communities in need is brought to life with our Mobile Relief Diner (that delivers hot meals to our neighbors during times of disaster), Denny's Hungry for Education™ scholarship program, our annual fundraiser with long-time-partner No Kid Hungry, and our new partnership supporting Cookies for Kids’ Cancer in their mission to fund research for new, improved and less toxic treatments for kids facing cancer.
Denny's is one of the largest franchised full-service restaurant brands in the world, based on the number of restaurants. As of September 24, 2025, the Denny’s brand consisted of 1,459 global restaurants, 1,397 of which were franchised and licensed restaurants and 62 of which were company-operated. This includes 166 restaurants in Canada, Costa Rica, Curacao, El Salvador, Guam, Guatemala, Honduras, Indonesia, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.
To learn more about Denny's, please visit our brand website at www.dennys.com or the brand's social channels via Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn or YouTube.
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Chicken Salad Chick Names Brian Lindley as Chief Development Officer to Accelerate Strategic Franchise Growth
Apr 13, 2026, 09:47 ET
Seasoned real estate and franchise development leader to guide brand's next phase of expansion across new markets
ATLANTA, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicken Salad Chick, the nation's only fast-casual chicken salad restaurant concept, announced today the appointment of Brian Lindley as Chief Development Officer. In this role, Lindley will lead the brand's franchise development strategy, leveraging his extensive background in real estate, multi-unit growth, and restaurant franchising to support Chicken Salad Chick's continued national expansion.
Lindley brings decades of experience across a range of development environments, from single-unit operators to large, multi-site franchise systems. His career includes leadership roles with Chick-fil-A, BP and Restaurant Brands International (RBI), where he gained experience in site selection, dealmaking and scaling brands across diverse markets.
"I'm incredibly grateful to join a brand with so much heart and such a strong foundation," said Brian Lindley, chief development officer, Chicken Salad Chick. "Driven by purpose and community impact, Chicken Salad Chick has built a truly special bond with both guests and franchise owners. I'm excited to help bring this unique dining experience to new markets across the country, while staying disciplined in how we grow, partnering with the right franchise owners and selecting the best locations to set them up for success."
As Chief Development Officer, Lindley will focus on strengthening the brand's already robust franchise pipeline, enhancing development processes and unlocking new opportunities in high-growth regions including the Midwest, Northeast and Western U.S. He will also spearhead Chicken Salad Chick's efforts to optimize restaurant formats to reduce space requirements, improve efficiency and lower occupancy costs, while expanding flexibility in site selection across retail spaces and non-traditional venues. The brand has already signed agreements to open new locations in Nevada and New York this year.
Chicken Salad Chick continues to build strong momentum, with more than 330 restaurants across 22 states and plans to enter multiple new states this year, including Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah and West Virginia. The brand's intentional approach to growth, focused on thoughtful franchise owner selection and strategic site placement, has positioned it for long-term success in both existing and emerging markets.
"Brian's proven track record in franchise development and real estate, combined with his passion for building strong relationships with franchise owners, made him a great addition to our leadership team," said Scott Deviney, CEO and president of Chicken Salad Chick. "As we expand into new states and continue growing our footprint nationwide, Brian's strategic mindset and disciplined approach to development will be instrumental in ensuring we grow with the right partners, in the right locations."
Lindley's appointment builds on continued investment in the brand's leadership team, following the addition of Chief Marketing Officer Jill Thomas earlier this year. With a differentiated menu, strong franchise owner engagement and a focus on hospitality, the brand is well-positioned to scale while maintaining the core values that have fueled its success as it enters its next phase of growth.
For more information on the brand, visit www.chickensaladchick.com. Follow Chicken Salad Chick on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About Chicken Salad Chick Chicken Salad Chick serves full-flavored, Southern-style chicken salad made from scratch and served from the heart. With more than a dozen original chicken salad flavors plus fresh sides, soups, sandwiches, desserts and catering, there's something for every guest and occasion. Chicken Salad Chick has grown to more than 330 restaurants across 22 states and continues its rapid expansion driven by a passionate network of franchise owners. The brand has earned consistent recognition from Entrepreneur, Franchise Times, Fast Casual, QSR, Southern Living and Technomic, among others. Visit chickensaladchick.com to learn more.
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Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Names Jeff Uttz as Chief Financial Officer
Apr 8, 2026 8:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Firebirds Wood Fired Grill (“Firebirds”), the award-winning, polished-casual American restaurant and steakhouse, today announced that restaurant industry veteran Jeff Uttz has been named the Company’s new Chief Financial Officer, effective May 18, 2026.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jeff Uttz to the Firebirds family,” said Steve Kislow, Chief Executive Officer of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill. “His extensive experience guiding high-growth restaurant companies through critical expansion phases, combined with his deep expertise in cross-functional collaboration, makes him the perfect addition to our executive team. As we continue to strengthen our leadership position in the polished casual dining segment, Jeff's strategic vision and proven ability to develop and lead high performing finance organizations will be invaluable. We look forward to his contributions as we write the next chapter of growth for Firebirds."
Mr. Uttz brings an exceptional track record of financial leadership across some of the industry’s most respected brands. He most recently served as Chief Financial Officer of Kura Sushi, a technology-enabled revolving sushi concept, where he successfully improved corporate profitability through G&A savings and technology-driven efficiencies that support the Company’s growth trajectory and was instrumental in leading two successful public follow-on offerings. Previously, he served as Chief Financial Officer for Shake Shack Inc., where he played a critical role in executing the company’s initial public offering, developing the finance organization and supporting cross-functional efforts to open 45 new restaurants. Additionally, Mr. Uttz served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Yard House USA, Inc., an American sports bar chain, where he established the company’s finance infrastructure, actively supported all real estate transactions, and facilitated the successful acquisition of Yard House by Darden Restaurants, Inc. He has also held financial leadership positions at CKE Restaurants Inc. and began his career at the public accounting firm KPMG, LLP.
“Over the last two decades, Firebirds has built a truly unique guest experience, bringing people together over their signature open wood-fired grills to enjoy delicious hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, other wood-fired favorites, and the award-winning FIREBAR. Coupled with an elevated level of hospitality typically reserved for fine dining concepts, the Firebirds difference is unmistakable,” said Mr. Uttz. “I’ve had the privilege of working with several exceptional restaurant concepts during pivotal phases of expansion, and I see that same tremendous opportunity here at Firebirds. I look forward to partnering with Steve and the entire leadership team to build upon the strong foundation they’ve created and help ignite the clear potential ahead to drive long-term, sustainable growth.”
The appointment comes as Firebirds continues to strategically grow its brand across the United States. In addition to its current system footprint of nearly 70 restaurants, the Company plans to open seven new locations in 2026, which includes its anticipated entrance into the Lexington, Kentucky market – its first restaurant in the state.
About Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is a privately owned polished casual American restaurant concept offering an energetic twist on the traditional grill, featuring a boldly flavored menu in an elevated, fire-centric atmosphere. Signature menu items include hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood seared over locally sourced hickory, oak or pecan wood on Firebirds’ exposed wood-fired grill. Complementing its inviting dining room, guests will find the award-winning FIREBAR® and a full-service patio with seasonal comforts. Firebirds partners with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation year-round, having raised nearly $5 million for childhood cancer research through the sale of fresh-squeezed lemonade. Firebirds was named one of 10 ‘Breakout Brands’ by Nation’s Restaurant News and was awarded the Diners’ Choice Winner by OpenTable. Visit firebirdsrestaurants.com to become a member of Firebirds’ Inner Circle, make an OpenTable reservation or order online.
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Starbird Names Former Jersey Mike’s President Hoyt Jones as Advisor to the Board
April 7, 2026
Franchise veteran to help guide franchise development as the brand enters its next phase of multistate growth
San Francisco, CA (RestaurantNews.com) Starbird, the San Francisco-based premium chicken concept, announced the appointment of industry veteran Hoyt Jones as advisor to the board of directors as the company accelerates its national franchising efforts.
Jones previously served as president of Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems, Inc., where he helped guide franchise development, operational alignment and national expansion across one of the nation’s most successful restaurant systems. During his tenure, Jersey Mike’s experienced significant growth and industry recognition, including ranking No. 2 on Entrepreneur’s 2024 Franchise 500.
“Hoyt brings a rare combination of franchise, marketing and brand-building expertise that will help shape Starbird’s next chapter,” said Greg Levin, chief executive officer of Starbird. “His experience helping build one of the country’s most disciplined multi-unit restaurant brands will be invaluable as we enter new markets while protecting the standards and brand integrity that define Starbird.”
As an advisor to the board, Jones will provide strategic counsel to Starbird’s leadership team on franchise development, operational discipline and long-term scalability. With extensive experience guiding multi-unit franchise networks, he has helped translate brand strategy into in-restaurant execution while supporting franchise partners and strengthening performance standards.
“Starbird has built a compelling brand and a strong operational foundation,” said Jones. “I’m excited to support the board and leadership team as the company continues developing a franchise platform designed for sustainable, scalable growth.”
Jones’ appointment follows the recent hiring of Levin as CEO, further strengthening Starbird’s leadership team as the company builds its national franchise platform.
Together, these leadership investments reinforce Starbird’s commitment to a franchise model that supports franchisee profitability, protects brand integrity and enables disciplined long-term development across multiple markets.
Today’s announcement comes as Starbird enters its 10th year in business and continues building its presence beyond California. The brand recently signed a 36-unit franchise development agreement in Texas – its largest to date – underscoring growing national demand for the concept and its Positively Delicious Chicken®.
To learn more about Starbird or franchising opportunities, please visit StarbirdChicken.com and StarbirdFranchising.com, email franchising@starbirdchicken.com or contact 866-327-4779.
About Starbird
Founded in San Francisco in 2016, Starbird is a super-premium fast food brand serving Positively Delicious Chicken® through a modern, thoughtfully designed dining experience that blends hospitality, culinary craft and a smart use of technology. The brand’s menu features signature crispy chicken across salads, tenders, sandwiches, wings, and nuggets – made with bold flavors, high-quality ingredients, house made sauces and a focus on consistency and execution.
Starbird was founded by restaurant entrepreneur Aaron Noveshen through his firm, The Culinary Edge, with a vision to bring higher-quality food and thoughtful hospitality to quick-service dining. Built upon pillars of culinary innovation, and operational excellence, Starbird has established a differentiated position within the $34 billion U.S. chicken category. Today, the brand operates 19 locations and continues to expand into new markets.
Starbird’s fresh, chef-driven approach has earned widespread industry recognition, including being named Nation’s Restaurant News’ Chicken Showdown winner in 2023, appearing on Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers for nine consecutive years (ranking #7 in 2025), and landing on Restaurant Business/Technomic’s Future 50 list. Starbird has also been featured in QSR’s Best Brands to Work For in 2025.
For more information, go to StarbirdChicken.com, or follow the brand on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
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Jack in the Box Inc. Announces Katelyn Zborowski as Chief Marketing Officer
March 30, 2026
Jack in the Box deepens commitment to innovation and marketing as part of Jack’s Way
San Diego, CA (RestaurantNews.com) Jack in the Box Inc. (“Jack in the Box” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: JACK), today announced that it has appointed Katelyn Zborowski as the Company’s new Chief Marketing Officer, effective today. Zborowski will lead the Company’s marketing strategy, with a focus on driving demand through innovation, delivering profitable value, and bringing Jack’s Way to life across the brand.
Zborowski is a consumer-led marketing executive with over 15 years of experience delivering category-defining innovation. She spent over a decade with Yum! Brands, most recently serving as Head of Brand Strategy and Marketing at Pizza Hut. Prior to Pizza Hut, Zborowski led global brand management and portfolio strategy as the Director of Brand Marketing at Taco Bell, where she drove sales growth through more than 40 innovative LTOs.
“We are thrilled to welcome Katelyn to Jack in the Box as we continue to strengthen our brand and improve how we show up for guests,” said Chief Executive Officer Lance Tucker. “Katelyn’s proven ability to translate deep consumer insights into relevant marketing that drives traffic and builds lasting brand connection will be pivotal to driving sustainable, long-term growth.”
“I’m excited to join Jack in the Box and lead the brand’s marketing strategy to drive sales and inspire brand loyalty,” said Zborowski. “I look forward to working with the Jack team to build on the brand’s strong foundation, deepen our connection with guests, and drive demand through bold, insight-led marketing.”
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 2,125 restaurants across 22 states. For more information, including franchising opportunities, visit JackInTheBox.com.
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Zaxbys Welcomes New Chief Financial Officer Michael Dixon
Mar 30, 2026, 09:00 ET
The Restaurant Industry Veteran Brings Decades of Experience to Zaxbys Seasoned Leadership Team
ATLANTA, March 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Saucy chicken chain Zaxbys® announced the appointment of Michael Dixon as its new Chief Financial Officer beginning March 30. Dixon will serve as a key member of Zaxbys executive leadership team reporting to Bernard Acoca, Chief Executive Officer at Zaxbys and guiding Zaxbys through the company's nationwide expansion.
"Mike's demonstrated success in accelerating and scaling financial performance across QSR organizations, maximizing unit economics, and managing complex financial environments makes him a perfect fit for Zaxbys next chapter," said Bernard Acoca, Zaxbys CEO. "As Zaxbys continues the brand's national growth and expansion I am confident in our ability to grow to win with Mike's leadership."
Dixon brings over thirty years of accomplished financial leadership experience across restaurant, retail and entertainment companies. Most recently, Dixon served as Chief Financial Officer of GoTo Foods where he nearly doubled the size of the brand portfolio's business.
Prior to GoTo Foods, Mr. Dixon spent multiple years serving as a financial leader at esteemed organizations across the restaurant and QSR industries. Dixon's experience includes Ignite Restaurant Group where he developed an efficient multi-brand infrastructure, Pinkberry where he built the then startup's corporate team leadership, and Cheesecake Factory where he served nearly a decade.
As Zaxbys Chief Financial Officer Dixon will serve as a key member of the brand's executive leadership team, responsible for leading the finance function, including financial strategy, planning and analytics, accounting and treasury, as the brand continues its national expansion after eclipsing 1,000 stores in 2025.
Dixon holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and MBA in Accounting from the University of Michigan.
"I'm honored to join Zaxbys as the brand continues to build on its strong growth trajectory," Dixon said. "With a strong foundation and a powerful growth pipeline ahead, I look forward to partnering with the team to accelerate expansion, strengthen performance, and help position Zaxbys for long-term success."
About Zaxbys
Founded in 1990, Zaxbys® is committed to serving delicious Chicken Fingerz™, Zalads®, wings, and signature sauces with Southern hospitality and a modern twist. In 2025, Zaxbys was recognized as Transformational Brand of the Year by QSR Magazine. Zaxbys has over 1,000 locations in 22 states and is headquartered in Atlanta, Ga. For more information, visit zaxbys.com or zaxbysfranchising.com.
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Golden Corral Names Trona Balkissoon as Chief Financial Officer
March 26, 2026
Trusted finance leader and industry advocate to strengthen brand performance and shape its next chapter
Raleigh, NC (RestaurantNews.com) Golden Corral, America’s leading buffet chain, has appointed Trona Balkissoon as chief financial officer, effective today. Balkissoon steps into the role following the retirement of CFO Jim Laverty.
In her new role, Balkissoon will lead Golden Corral’s financial strategy, focusing on optimizing results, sharpening decision-making, and supporting long-term system health across its corporate and franchise footprint. Her perspective will be key as the company continues to grow and adapt.
She brings more than 25 years of global experience with Nestlé, spanning both retail and foodservice channels. Balkissoon joined Golden Corral in April 2025 as senior vice president of finance, after most recently serving as chief financial officer for Nestlé’s out-of-home division, where she oversaw operations throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Since joining the brand, she has been recognized for her dynamic, agile approach, pairing fiscal discipline with a talent for building high-performing teams.
She is also an active advocate for advancing opportunity and representation within the industry. Balkissoon was appointed to the Women’s Foodservice Forum Board of Directors in 2023, currently serves on its Executive Board, and was named Treasurer in 2026. She also serves on the Board of Trustees for the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation as a member of the Foundation Executive Committee and Vice Chair of the Finance Subcommittee. Her work supporting women in leadership and developing future talent aligns with Golden Corral’s ongoing investments in education and community, including initiatives like Camp Corral.
“Trona’s impact has been clear from the moment she joined our team, and this next step reflects her exceptional leadership and the trust she’s earned across the organization,” said Lance Trenary, CEO of Golden Corral. “She brings a rare combination of global perspective, financial rigor, and a deep understanding of the foodservice landscape. As we continue to evolve, her ability to connect strategy, financial discipline, and execution will shape how we move forward.”
This transition highlights Golden Corral’s commitment to building a visionary leadership team equipped to navigate a rapidly changing environment while staying true to the core principles that define the concept and guide its decisions.
“Golden Corral is a renowned brand with a legacy built on delivering value and genuine hospitality to families across the country,” said Balkissoon. “In this role, my focus is on ensuring our financial approach sustains responsible growth, strengthens our franchise system, and creates opportunities for our teams. When those elements are aligned, we can continue delivering a consistent, high-quality experience for our guests.”
Looking ahead, Balkissoon’s appointment reflects a clear direction for Golden Corral as it continues to evolve within a competitive landscape. Her leadership brings added discipline and perspective to a system designed to support franchisees while continuing to meet guest expectations at every visit.
For more information about Golden Corral, visit GoldenCorral.com. To find a nearby restaurant, visit GoldenCorral.com/locations or order online at GoldenCorral.com/order-online/.
About Golden Corral
Founded in 1973 and based in Raleigh, N.C., Golden Corral is the nation’s largest grill-buffet restaurant chain. Golden Corral strives to make pleasurable dining affordable for all families. Golden Corral restaurants are 99% locally owned and operated by independent franchisees. While its commitment begins each day with preparing delicious food, Golden Corral also believes in providing outstanding hospitality and giving back. Service to others is a hallmark of the Golden Corral brand. In recent years, Golden Corral has been recognized among the nation’s top 50 “Most Loved Brands” by Yelp (2023), honored by Newsweek for “America’s Best Customer Service 2024,” named Newsweek’s #1 “Best Buffet Chain in America” for 2025, and selected for USA TODAY’s 2026 lists of “America’s Best Customer Service” and “Most Trusted Brands.” The brand has also earned multiple workplace awards in recognition of its deep-rooted culture. Golden Corral restaurants nationwide have long been strong supporters of the U.S. Military and DAV (Disabled American Veterans) and have more recently partnered with Project Healing Waters, an organization that helps active military service personnel and Veterans in need through a dedicated, developed curriculum of fly fishing, fly casting, fly tying, and fly rod building. Golden Corral is also the founding sponsor of Camp Corral, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation, which provides free, one-of-a-kind summer camp experiences for children of wounded, injured, ill, or fallen service members. For more information, visit GoldenCorral.com and follow Golden Corral on Facebook, Instagram, and X, formerly known as Twitter.
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Chicken Salad Chick Taps Industry Veteran Jill Thomas as Chief Marketing Officer
Mar 23, 2026, 09:30 ET
Thomas brings extensive expertise in brand, digital, loyalty, and emerging payments strategy to guide brand growth
ATLANTA, March 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicken Salad Chick, the nation's only fast-casual chicken salad restaurant concept, today announced the appointment of Jill Thomas as Chief Marketing Officer. Thomas brings more than 20 years of experience leading brand, digital, and growth strategies across the consumer, sports, and retail sectors. In her new role, Thomas will lead all brand and marketing functions, overseeing national consumer marketing, digital and loyalty strategy, menu innovation support, and guest experience initiatives.
"I'm honored to join Chicken Salad Chick at such an exciting moment in its evolution," said Jill Thomas, Chief Marketing Officer, Chicken Salad Chick. "The brand has built a powerful connection with its guests and franchise owners by delivering genuine hospitality and a differentiated menu. I look forward to working with the team to strengthen that connection, unlock new growth opportunities, and continue elevating the guest experience across every touchpoint."
Thomas joins Chicken Salad Chick following six years at PGA TOUR Superstore, where she served as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Retail and e-commerce. In that role, she led fan engagement, lifecycle marketing, and digital commerce initiatives, driving measurable gains in loyalty, lifetime value, and omnichannel performance. She also served as Governor of the Atlanta Drive Golf Club in the TGL League, contributing to a tech-forward, fan-centric sports experience.
"While my background spans both retail and restaurant businesses, coming from my most recent role outside the traditional restaurant path allows me to apply a fresh perspective to Chicken Salad Chick and bring ideas and capabilities that have been evolving quickly in other consumer industries," added Thomas.
Prior to PGA TOUR Superstore, Thomas held senior marketing leadership roles at Edible Brands, Cinnabon, Bloomin' Brands, Yum! Brands, Disney Parks & Resorts, and Publix Super Markets. Her time at Disney Parks & Resorts played a pivotal role in shaping her leadership philosophy, reinforcing the importance of brand storytelling, deep customer understanding, and delivering a consistent, high-quality guest experience at every step. Her career spans both quick-service and full-service restaurant categories with deep expertise in brand positioning, CRM/loyalty, digital transformation, and performance marketing.
"Jill's ability to connect data-driven strategy with meaningful guest experiences makes her an exceptional addition to our leadership team," said Scott Deviney, President and CEO of Chicken Salad Chick. "As we continue to scale the brand, her background across restaurants, retail, and e-commerce paired with her passion for building high-performing teams will help accelerate our growth and deepen engagement with both guests and franchise owners."
As Chief Marketing Officer, Thomas will lead Chicken Salad Chick's integrated marketing strategy as the brand continues its nationwide expansion. She will oversee brand development, national and local marketing, digital and loyalty initiatives, and menu innovation support, while strengthening the systems and analytics that drive guest acquisition, engagement, and retention. She will also focus on further modernizing the brand's marketing approach by enhancing data and insight capabilities, strengthening its digital ecosystem, and evolving storytelling to remain culturally relevant while preserving the warmth and Southern charm that define the brand.
Thomas has been recognized as a leading voice in digital, CRM/loyalty, and emerging payments strategy, and has spoken at numerous industry forums. She holds an MBA from the University of Florida and a bachelor's degree in advertising from Florida Southern College. She is also active in community and youth development initiatives, including board service with The First Tee Metro Atlanta. As a significant addition to the team, Thomas's appointment as CMO further strengthens Chicken Salad Chick's executive leadership and reinforces the brand's ongoing commitment to cultivating accomplished, high-impact female business leaders.
For more information on the brand, visit www.chickensaladchick.com. Follow Chicken Salad Chick on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About Chicken Salad Chick Chicken Salad Chick serves full-flavored, Southern-style chicken salad made from scratch and served from the heart. With more than a dozen original chicken salad flavors as well as fresh sides, gourmet soups, signature sandwiches and delicious desserts, Chicken Salad Chick's robust menu is a perfect fit for any guest. Founded in 2008 in Auburn, Alabama by Stacy and Kevin Brown, Chicken Salad Chick has grown to more than 330 restaurants in 22 states. Today, under the leadership of Scott Deviney and the Chicken Salad Chick team, the brand is continuing its rapid expansion with both franchise and company locations. Chicken Salad Chick has received numerous accolades including rankings in the 2023 Entrepreneur Franchise 500, Franchise Times' Fast & Serious and Top 400 lists, Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers & Shakers from 2018 to 2025, QSR's Best Franchise Deals in 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2024, and Franchise Business Review's Top Food Franchises list from 2019-2025. Chicken Salad Chick has also been named one of the South's Best Chains by Southern Living and has been recognized as one of America's Favorite Chains by Technomic. See www.chickensaladchick.com for additional information.
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Fransmart Appoints Sara Schmillen as Chief Marketing Officer
Mar 23, 2026, 08:43 ET
Schmillen leads an all-women marketing team in brand strategy and franchise development support for emerging franchise concepts
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., March 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Fransmart, the global leader in franchise development, has announced the appointment of Sara Schmillen as Chief Marketing Officer. Schmillen brings more than two decades of marketing leadership experience in the restaurant and franchise industries, with a proven track record of building high-impact brands and driving measurable growth.
In her new role, Schmillen will oversee the marketing strategy across Fransmart's portfolio of restaurant and retail franchise brands, further strengthening the company's position as the premier growth engine for emerging franchise concepts.
"I am thrilled to join Fransmart at such an exciting time in the company's evolution," said Schmillen. "As CMO, I am looking forward to helping our emerging brands stand out, share their unique stories, and attract the best-in-class franchisees who will bring these concepts to life across the country."
Notably, Schmillen leads an all-women marketing department at Fransmart, an achievement the company is proud to highlight during Women's History Month. The team includes marketing leaders across brand strategy and franchise development support, reflecting Fransmart's commitment to empowering female leadership and fostering diverse perspectives.
"Bringing Sara on board is a major milestone for Fransmart," said Dan Rowe, founder and CEO of Fransmart. "Her deep experience in scaling iconic brands and her ability to build and inspire high-performing teams make her the ideal leader to take our marketing efforts to the next level."
Prior to Fransmart, Schmillen held senior marketing roles with leading restaurant brands, including her tenure as Head of Marketing and Vice President of Marketing at Kahala Brands, where she led national campaigns for globally recognized concepts such as Cold Stone Creamery. Most recently, she served as Interim Chief Marketing Officer at Snooze Eatery.
To learn more about Fransmart and its portfolio of emerging franchise concepts, visit www.fransmart.com.
About Fransmart: Fransmart is the global leader in franchise development, selling over 5,000 franchises worldwide and turning emerging restaurant concepts into national and global brands for 20 years. Company Founder Dan Rowe identified and grew brands like Five Guys Burgers & Fries, QDOBA Mexican Grill and The Halal Guys from 1–5-unit businesses to the powerhouse chains they are today. Fransmart's current and past franchise development portfolio brands have opened thousands of restaurants globally. Fransmart and their partner brands are committed to franchise development growth. Follow Fransmart on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. For more information, visit www.fransmart.com.
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Bonchon Appoints Industry Veteran Blas Escarcega as Chief Development Officer to Accelerate U.S. Growth
March 19, 2026
Dallas, TX (RestaurantNews.com) Bonchon, the globally celebrated Korean fried chicken brand known for its hand-battered, double-fried method and signature sauces, today announced that Blas Escarcega has joined the company as Chief Development Officer. In this role, Escarcega will lead all aspects of franchise development in the United States, including market planning, franchise recruitment, site selection, and new restaurant growth strategy.
Escarcega brings more than two decades of development experience, including leading large-scale expansion initiatives, strengthening franchise pipelines, and optimizing real estate strategies for nationally recognized concepts. He will oversee Bonchon’s continued march toward accelerated U.S. expansion as the brand builds on its recent momentum.
“Blas is a seasoned, respected development leader who understands how to scale great brands with intention,” says Suzie Tsai, CEO of Bonchon. “As Bonchon continues to expand into new markets and strengthen our national footprint, his expertise in franchise growth, market analytics, and operator partnerships will be invaluable. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team.”
As Bonchon advances, the brand is rolling out a new fast casual prototype designed to deliver operational efficiency in a smaller footprint. The new model features a kitchen-forward layout and streamlined service design in under 2,000 square feet, allowing operators to enter high-demand trade areas with strong unit economics and lower build-out costs. This format enables Bonchon to expand flexibly into priority markets across Texas, California, Arizona, Nevada, Florida, the Carolinas, Georgia, Tennessee, and the Northeast corridor including New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, while also opening the door to non-traditional venues, including airports, colleges, and urban storefronts with tighter real estate constraints.
Bonchon recently surpassed 150 U.S. locations and operates nearly 500 restaurants worldwide, with strong sales growth and increasing consumer demand for Korean cuisine driving new development opportunities. Escarcega will work closely with Bonchon’s executive team to deepen the company’s presence in priority markets, enhance franchisee support, and streamline processes that help operators open successfully and profitably.
“I am excited to join Bonchon at such a pivotal moment in its growth story,” says Escarcega. “This brand has a unique global following, incredible food, and strong unit economics, the fundamentals that attract high-quality franchise partners. I look forward to working with Suzie and the team to elevate Bonchon’s development strategy and bring this beloved brand to more communities across the country.”
Bonchon’s development pipeline is growing, with new locations slated for both established and emerging markets. The company has also launched menu innovations, enhanced training and operational support, and implemented construction efficiencies, all of which help create a more scalable growth model for franchise operators.
For more information about Bonchon franchising, visit franchising.Bonchon.com.
About Bonchon
South Korea-born Bonchon, which translates as “my hometown,” was established in the United States in 2006. Known for its hand-battered, double-fried, crazy crispy Korean fried chicken, Bonchon sets out to have its fans around the world “Crunch Out Loud”. The brand continues to grow in popularity and has earned several accolades including Fast Casual Magazine’s 2026 Top Movers & Shakers. For more information, visit Bonchon.com. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit franchising.Bonchon.com. Follow Bonchon on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
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Handel’s Ice Cream Appoints Naveen Dasa as Chief Financial Officer
March 17, 2026
Veteran finance leader joins executive team to support disciplined growth and franchise performance
Youngstown, OH (RestaurantNews.com) Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has appointed Naveen Dasa as chief financial officer, adding a dynamic and accomplished finance executive to its leadership team as the brand accelerates into its next chapter of strategic growth. Dasa brings more than a decade of experience spanning franchising, restaurant operations and consumer brands – including roles at Shake Shack, BakeMark and Yum! Brands.
He previously spent ten years with Yum! Brands advancing through finance and strategy roles across Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Yum! Corporate – most notably, Dasa played a key role in designing and implementing Pizza Hut’s systemwide asset upgrade program, helping establish a long-term plan to refresh or remodel all 6,000 U.S. restaurants. He also held finance leadership roles at Shake Shack, further deepening his experience in high-growth restaurant brands and company-owned operations. Earlier in his career, Dasa worked in investment banking as an assistant vice president at J.P. Morgan and an analyst at UBS, where he gained transaction and capital markets experience supporting complex corporate financings and strategic deals.
With a background that spans corporate finance, franchise business development, marketing analytics and field finance, Dasa brings a rare combination of strategic vision and operational rigor – positioning Handel’s for disciplined expansion and sustained, long-term value creation.
“Naveen’s background at some of the most sophisticated restaurant and franchise organizations in the world makes him a tremendous addition to our leadership team,” said Jennifer Schuler, CEO of Handel’s Ice Cream. “He understands how to support franchisees with data-driven insights while also helping brands modernize systems, store designs and financial processes to fuel sustainable growth. His experience will be invaluable as we continue expanding Handel’s footprint.”
In his role at Handel’s, Dasa will work closely with franchisees and internal teams to strengthen financial insights, enhance operational support and partner with franchisees to drive profitability and return on invested capital.
“I’m honored to join a brand with the heritage, product excellence and growth trajectory of Handel’s,” said Dasa. “As we enter this next phase, my priority is to build a finance organization that serves as a strategic partner to the business – delivering actionable insights, disciplined capital allocation and scalable systems that empower our franchisees to grow confidently. Together, we will drive operational excellence, accelerate smart expansion and create sustained, long-term value across the system.”
Dasa holds a bachelor’s degree from the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration and earned his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
For more information about Handel’s, visit HandelsIceCream.com.
About Handel’s Ice Cream
Handel’s Ice Cream has been making and selling ice cream since 1945. Founded in Youngstown, Ohio, the legacy of Handel’s began with Alice Handel. The brand was later purchased by Lenny Fisher, and what started as a single ice cream parlor has now grown into a beloved brand nationwide. Handel’s is committed to quality, using abundant ingredients to create their ice cream, which is made by hand in small batches at each location. They offer 48 flavors every day, with more than 140 additional flavors that rotate seasonally.
Handel’s has earned numerous industry accolades, including being ranked the #1 Sweet Treat and a Top 10 Brand to Buy by Franchise Times. The brand is also featured on the publication’s Top 400 list of the largest franchise systems in the United States and its Fast & Serious list recognizing the smartest-growing franchises of the year. Additionally, Handel’s was recognized on Fast Casual’s Movers & Shakers 2025 list, while CEO Jennifer Schuler was named among the Top 25 Industry Executives for her leadership and innovation in foodservice. The brand is also recognized as a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine.
Handel’s currently has over 175 locations across 20 states and is growing. To learn more about Handel’s franchise opportunities, visit HandelsIceCream.com/handels-franchise/.
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