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Chick-fil-A CEO Andrew T. Cathy Announces Susannah Frost as President
Aug. 15, 2024
ATLANTA (Aug. 15, 2024) — Susannah Frost has been named President of Chick-fil-A, Inc., making her the sixth person to hold the leadership role since the company’s founding in 1967. The news was shared today by Chief Executive Officer, Andrew T. Cathy, who is the grandson of founder Truett Cathy. “Susannah has demonstrated tremendous leadership throughout the business and has the range of expertise that will help the company continue growing with care and confidence,” said Cathy. “Having served as the CEO for three years, the timing is right to expand our leadership capabilities to include a president who will work closely with me and our executive committee to steward our domestic and global expansion.” As CEO, Cathy will continue to focus on the overall strategic direction for the enterprise and culture while Frost, as President, will focus on providing strategic clarity and alignment in the core business so that Chick-fil-A can sustain healthy growth and maintain market leadership. She will also lead the Executive Committee. “The future continues to offer so much potential and promise as we look to grow our opportunities to provide care and great food as well as live out our Corporate Purpose,” Frost said. “We have the opportunity to scale care with excellence across 3,000-plus restaurants and international markets. I look forward to working alongside Andrew, our leaders, Operators and Staff to provide this to Customers in the communities we serve.” Frost currently leads Restaurant Development and Field Operations for Chick-fil-A, Inc. overseeing the company’s real estate portfolio and leading field operations for more than 3,000 restaurants domestically. Prior to joining Chick-fil-A, she was a real estate attorney at Troutman Sanders, advancing to partner. Since joining the company in 2007, Frost has assumed higher degrees of responsibility within the legal department, Restaurant Development and Operations. She holds an undergraduate degree in mathematics from The University of Georgia and a law degree from Emory University. She also completed executive education programs at Columbia University and Harvard University. Cathy also announced today that Cliff Robinson is being named Chief Operating Officer (COO). Robinson currently serves as Chief People Officer and his responsibilities will expand to include leading Field Operations and Restaurant Development. As COO he will continue to ensure talent remains a competitive advantage, while overseeing operations and the company’s continued expansion. Robinson began working at Chick-fil-A at a young age as the son of a Chick-fil-A restaurant Owner-Operator. He joined the company corporate Support Center staff in 1990 and has held increasing roles of responsibility, including various roles leading Field Operations, Restaurant Development and most recently as Chief People Officer. Frost and Robinson will assume their new roles October 1. About Chick-fil-A, Inc. Chick-fil-A, Inc. is the third largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States, known for its freshly-prepared food, signature hospitality and unique franchise model. More than 200,000 Team Members are employed by independent owner-operators in more than 3,000 restaurants across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. In 2023, the company shared plans to expand by 2030 into Europe and Asia. Chick-fil-A owner-operators live and work in the communities their restaurants serve, each supporting local efforts to address hunger, education, and making a positive impact. The family-owned and privately held company was founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com and @ChickfilANews.
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McDonald’s Appoints Tiffanie Boyd Global Chief People Officer
August 14, 2024
Today, McDonald’s Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski announced that Tiffanie Boyd, who currently serves as Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer for McDonald’s USA, has been promoted to Executive Vice President & Global Chief People Officer, effective August 19, 2024.
In this role, Tiffanie will oversee the company’s human resources operations around the world, including Talent Management, Talent Acquisition, Total Rewards, Learning & Development, DEI, Culture and Organization Effectiveness.
"Tiffanie is an exceptional HR leader who understands that great people are the bedrock of the McDonald's business. Since she joined the company a few years ago, Tiffanie has quickly established herself as a collaborative, values-driven leader who has championed several transformational programs like our People Brand Standards and talent development initiatives that have turned our U.S. business into a role model within the system. I am excited to welcome Tiffanie to our Global Senior Leadership Team as she takes the reins as McDonald’s next Global Chief People Officer." - Chris Kempczinski, Chairman and CEO of McDonald’s Corporation
Heidi Capozzi, the current Executive Vice President and Global Chief People Officer, has decided to leave McDonald’s at the end of the month for a new opportunity.
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Starbucks names Brian Niccol as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Brian Niccol will join Starbucks on September 9, 2024. Mellody Hobson will be lead independent director. Laxman Narasimhan is stepping down as ceo and as a director effective immediately. Rachel Ruggeri will serve as interim ceo.
SEATTLE – Starbucks (NASDAQ: SBUX) today announced that Brian Niccol has been appointed chairman and chief executive officer. Niccol will start in his new role on September 9, 2024. Starbucks chief financial officer, Rachel Ruggeri, will serve as interim ceo until that time. Mellody Hobson, Starbucks board chair, will become lead independent director.
Niccol currently serves as Chairman and CEO of Chipotle. Since becoming CEO in 2018, Niccol has transformed Chipotle. His focus on people and culture, brand, menu innovation, operational excellence, and digital transformation have set new standards in the industry and driven significant growth and value creation. Revenue has nearly doubled, profits have increased nearly sevenfold, and the stock price has increased by nearly 800% during his leadership, all while increasing wages for retail team members, expanding benefits, and strengthening the culture.
“We are thrilled to welcome Brian to Starbucks. His phenomenal career speaks for itself. Brian is a culture carrier who brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of driving innovation and growth. Like all of us at Starbucks, he understands that a remarkable customer experience is rooted in an exceptional partner experience,” said Hobson. “Our board believes he will be a transformative leader for our company, our people, and everyone we serve around the world.”
“I am excited to join Starbucks and grateful for the opportunity to help steward this incredible company, alongside hundreds of thousands of devoted partners,” said Niccol. “I have long-admired Starbucks iconic brand, unique culture and commitment to enhancing human connections around the globe. As I embark upon this journey, I am energized by the tremendous potential to drive growth and further enhance the Starbucks experience for our customers and partners, while staying true to our mission and values.”
Laxman Narasimhan is stepping down from his role as ceo and as a member of the Starbucks board with immediate effect. During his tenure, he improved the Starbucks partner experience, drove significant innovation in our supply chain, and enhanced our store operations.
“On behalf of the board, I want to sincerely thank Laxman for his contributions to Starbucks, and his dedication to our people and brand,” said Hobson. “In the face of some challenging headwinds, Laxman has been laser focused on improving the business to meet the needs of our customers and partners. We all wish him the very best and know he will do great things in the future.”
Niccol joined Chipotle as Chief Executive Officer and a director in March 2018, and became Chairman of the Board in March 2020. Before joining Chipotle, he served as Chief Executive of Taco Bell. Before becoming CEO he held roles including Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer, and President. He also served in leadership roles at Pizza Hut, another division of Yum! Brands. He began his career in brand management at Procter and Gamble.
Niccol currently serves on the board of directors of Walmart Inc. He previously served on the board of KB Home and Harley-Davidson. Niccol holds an undergraduate degree from Miami University and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
“Having followed Brian’s leadership and transformation journey at Chipotle, I’ve long admired his leadership impact. His retail excellence and track record in delivering extraordinary shareholder value recognizes the critical human element it takes to lead a culture and values driven enterprise. I believe he is the leader Starbucks needs at a pivotal moment in its history. He has my respect and full support,” said Howard Schultz, Starbucks founder and chairman emeritus. “I thank Mellody and the Starbucks board for their deep commitment to shaping the future of this remarkable global phenomenon that is Starbucks.”
Ruggeri is a 23-year Starbucks partner. She has been CFO since 2021.
About Starbucks
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 39,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at stories.starbucks.com or www.starbucks.com.
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Chipotle Announces CEO Departure
SCOTT BOATWRIGHT, COO AND 7-YEAR CHIPOTLE VETERAN, NAMED INTERIM CEO
JACK HARTUNG TO REMAIN WITH COMPANY AS PRESIDENT, STRATEGY, FINANCE & SUPPLY CHAIN
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Aug. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) today announced that Brian Niccol, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has accepted the role as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Starbucks and will be leaving the Company effective August 31, 2024. Niccol has served as Chipotle's CEO since 2018 and as Chairman of the Board since 2020.
Chipotle's Board of Directors has appointed Scott Boatwright, Chief Operating Officer, as Interim CEO. Boatwright joined Chipotle in 2017 and has been instrumental in driving restaurant operations for the company's more than 120,000 employees and over 3,500 restaurants. He also led the integration of new technology into restaurants, built a strong culture aligned to the organization's values, and achieved industry-leading retention rates yielding impressive results and improvements in throughput and the overall guest experience. Boatwright played a critical role as part of the leadership team that created and executed the turnaround strategy that has delivered incredible results since it began in 2018. Boatwright and the esteemed leadership team will continue to execute the company's strategic plan without interruption.
In addition, Jack Hartung, who recently announced his retirement from Chipotle in 2025, has agreed to remain with the organization indefinitely as President of Strategy, Finance and Supply Chain to ensure a smooth transition. In this new role, Hartung will support Boatwright as Interim CEO, and continue his current oversight of Adam Rymer, Vice President of Finance and incoming CFO, as well as Carlos Londono, global head of Supply Chain.
With this leadership change, Scott Maw, Chipotle's Lead Independent Director, has been named Chairman of the Board, effective immediately. "Thanks to our robust talent planning process, we are well-prepared for events like this due to the deep bench within the organization," said Scott Maw, Chipotle's Chairman of the Board. "The board is excited to see other strong leaders expand their roles and provide growth and development for more people in the organization," added Maw.
"I'm incredibly proud of the work that has been accomplished since I joined Chipotle in 2018," said Brian Niccol. "The strategic priorities this team has put in place have positioned Chipotle to win today and enable future growth. It's hard to leave such a great company and all of the talented people I've had the pleasure to work with, but I depart knowing the business is in great shape and poised for growth with a strong, experienced leadership team."
Scott Boatwright added: "I have the utmost confidence in our five key strategies and I'm excited for the new opportunity to lead the business moving forward. We have a world-class organization full of talented leaders who are passionate about our brand and purpose and excited for the long-term opportunity to grow to 7,000 restaurants in North America and expand internationally."
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 over 3,500 restaurants as of June 30, 2024, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Kuwait and it is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe. Chipotle is ranked on the Fortune 500 and is recognized on Fortune's Most Admired Companies 2024 list and Time Magazine's Most Influential Companies. With over 120,000 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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Mark Shambura Joins Panera Bread as Chief Marketing Officer
St. Louis, MO (RestaurantNews.com) Panera Bread today announced that Mark Shambura has joined the company as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Mr. Shambura will lead all aspects of marketing at Panera, including Brand Building, Digital & Loyalty, Product Strategy & Consumer Insights. An accomplished marketing leader with broad expertise in the restaurant industry, Mr. Shambura has previously held marketing leadership roles during pivotal growth periods for top brands including Chipotle, MOD Pizza, and most recently Papa Johns.
“Mark brings an impressive background building brands and leading marketing teams for fast-casual restaurants, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to Panera Bread,” said José Alberto Dueñas, Chief Executive Officer. “As Panera continues to evolve our brand, guided by listening to our guests, Mark’s depth of experience and ability will help drive our growth as a brand that serves great food you feel good about eating.”
Mr. Shambura previously served as CMO at Papa Johns, where he led a revitalization of the brand by enhancing its iconic “Better Ingredients, Better Pizza” platform, and developing a more modern, innovative omnichannel approach to transform how Papa Johns appealed to both new and loyal consumers. As Executive Director at Chipotle, Mr. Shambura guided the marketing function through periods of both sustained growth and transition, providing leadership over brand strategy, advertising, digital, social, events/sponsorships, promotions, and field marketing, including playing a key role in spearheading its “Real Ingredients” brand strategy.
“I’m proud to join the Panera Bread team and excited to build on the momentum of the brand’s transformation as it continues to evolve in service of our guests,” Mr. Shambura said. “Panera propelled and cemented its position at the top of the fast casual restaurant segment through its promise of high-quality ingredients and freshly prepared food, and I’m thrilled to join a highly talented team to help shape its next chapter.”
Prior to his tenure in the restaurant industry, Mr. Shambura gained extensive marketing agency experience, working with a broad array of top global consumer brands for over a decade. Shambura will report directly to José Alberto Dueñas, Chief Executive Officer, and officially assumed the role of Chief Marketing Officer on July 29, 2024.
About Panera Bread
Our first bakery-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 and 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 nearly 2,200 bakery-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 July 23, 2024, there were 2,169 bakery-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 Twitter (@panerabread), Facebook (facebook.com/panerabread) Instagram (@panerabread) or TikTok (@panerabread).
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Papa Johns Appoints Restaurant Industry Veteran Todd Penegor as President and Chief Executive Officer
Former Wendy’s CEO Brings Proven Record Growing Premium QSR Brand, Building Successful Teams and Forging Strong Franchisee Partnerships
Louisville, KY (RestaurantNews.com) Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) (“Papa Johns®”) today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Todd Penegor as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Penegor has also joined the Company’s Board of Directors. He succeeds Ravi Thanawala, who has served as Interim CEO since March 2024 and will continue in his role as Chief Financial Officer.
Mr. Penegor, most recently President and Chief Executive Officer of The Wendy’s Company, is a proven leader with 20 years of experience in the restaurant and consumer goods industries. During his tenure as President and Chief Executive Officer of Wendy’s, the company achieved substantial growth in sales, earnings and new restaurant counts, including the expansion of Wendy’s footprint to more than 7,000 restaurants worldwide and the 12th consecutive year of same-restaurant sales growth, among other achievements. Prior to Wendy’s, Mr. Penegor held key leadership roles at Kellogg Company and Ford Motor Company.
“Todd’s appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer successfully concludes an extensive search to identify a proven leader who has the experience, skills and vision to achieve the full potential of the Papa Johns brand and accelerate growth,” said Christopher Coleman, Chair of the Papa Johns Board of Directors. “Todd has an outstanding record of leading winning teams and scaling franchised operations globally through trusted partnerships, product innovation and digital transformation. He has also demonstrated his ability to effectively allocate capital, drive value and enhance profitability. We are excited to welcome Todd to Papa Johns and look forward to his contributions as we work to create significant, sustainable value for our shareholders and franchisees.”
“I am honored to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Papa Johns and work with the Board, our dedicated team members and franchisees to usher in the Company’s next chapter,” said Mr. Penegor. “By consistently delivering on the Better Ingredients. Better Pizza. brand promise, Papa Johns already has the best pizza in the industry. I am committed to providing exceptional customer experiences across all of our offerings and touchpoints to ensure we unlock the full potential of Papa Johns’ differentiated market position. Papa Johns has an exceptional foundation in place, and I’m confident in our ability to win in the QSR space.”
Mr. Coleman continued, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I thank Ravi for leading the Company during this transition period as Interim Chief Executive Officer over the past five months. We are grateful for his leadership and dedication to Papa Johns, and for his continued service as Chief Financial Officer.”
About Todd Penegor
Mr. Penegor served as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Wendy’s Company from 2016 to 2024, and as Wendy’s Chief Financial Officer from 2013 to 2016.
Prior to Wendy’s, Mr. Penegor held key leadership roles at Kellogg Company from 2000 to 2013, including President of U.S. Snacks, Chief Financial Officer of Kellogg Europe, Chief Financial Officer of Kellogg Snacks and Vice President, Global Financial Planning and Strategy.
Prior to Kellogg, Mr. Penegor worked at Ford Motor Company in various capacities within the Company’s finance organization from 1989 to 2000, supporting mergers and acquisitions, global joint ventures and treasury.
Mr. Penegor serves on the board of directors of Ball Corporation (since 2019) and Dutch Bros Inc. (since 2024). Mr. Penegor also formerly served on the board of directors of Perrigo Company.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Michigan State University.
About Papa Johns
Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) opened its doors in 1984 with one goal in mind: BETTER INGREDIENTS. BETTER PIZZA.® Papa Johns believes that using high-quality ingredients leads to superior quality pizzas. Its original dough is made of only six ingredients and is fresh, never frozen. Papa Johns tops its pizzas with real cheese made from mozzarella, pizza sauce made with vine-ripened tomatoes that go from vine to can in the same day and meat free of fillers. It was the first national pizza delivery chain to announce the removal of artificial flavors and synthetic colors from its entire food menu. Papa Johns is co-headquartered in Atlanta, Ga. and Louisville, Ky. and is the world’s third-largest pizza delivery company with more than 5,900 restaurants in approximately 50 countries and territories. For more information about the company or to order pizza online, visit PapaJohns.com or download the Papa Johns mobile app for iOS or Android.
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GEN Restaurant Group, Inc. Appoints David Park to its Board of Directors
July 25, 2024 08:30 ET
CERRITOS, Calif., July 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GEN Restaurant Group, Inc. (“GEN” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: GENK), owner of GEN Korean BBQ, a fast-growing casual dining concept with an extensive menu and signature “grill at your table” experience, has appointed David Park to the board of directors and to serve on the audit committee of the board, effective July 24, 2024. With Mr. Park’s addition, GEN has expanded the board to five total directors with three serving independently.
Mr. Park brings to the board more than two decades of experience in the capital markets and extensive M&A experience. Currently, Mr. Park is the founder and chief investment officer of Alpha Park Partners, a long-term oriented investment fund based in New York. He has held a variety of senior roles analyzing both public equity investments and private equity M&A transactions for notable firms, including Archegos Capital, Tiger Asia, Rockwood Capital, AEW Capital, and Maverick Capital, as well as previously working in the investment banking division of Goldman Sachs. Mr. Park holds an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
“I’m pleased to have Dave, a seasoned capital markets practitioner with M&A experience, join GEN’s board of directors,” said GEN’s Co-CEO and Chair of the Board David Kim. “As we continue to navigate the capital markets as a public company and execute upon our growth strategy to expand our footprint, we believe Dave’s significant experience in both of these areas will help guide our decision making. On behalf of our entire board, we welcome Dave to the team.”
Mr. Park commented on his appointment, “GEN has promising momentum on its side as the team looks to double the Company’s footprint in the next two years and create durable long-term value for shareholders. I have spent the majority of my entire career analyzing public equity investments, and I believe my expertise will be highly valuable to the board on this journey as a public company. I’m excited to be joining the board at this unique inflection point and look forward to providing my support as the Company capitalizes on the significant growth opportunities ahead.”
About GEN Restaurant Group, Inc.GEN Korean BBQ is one of the largest Asian casual dining restaurant concepts in the United States. Founded in 2011 by two Korean immigrants in Los Angeles, the brand has now grown to 40 company-owned locations where guests serve as their own chefs, preparing meals on embedded grills in the center of each table. The extensive menu consists of traditional Korean and Korean-American food, including high-quality meats, poultry, seafood and mixed vegetables. With its unique culinary experience alongside its modern décor and lively atmosphere, GEN Korean BBQ delivers an engaging and interactive dining experience that appeals to a vast segment of the population. For more information, visit GenKoreanBBQ.com and follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram.
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Pita Pit USA Appoints Longtime Employee to Chief Operating Officer
Esteemed Fast-Casual Franchise Recognizes Meghan Haugen’s 19-Years of Dedication with C-Suite Promotion
Coeur d’Alene, ID (RestaurantNews.com) Pita Pit, a distinguished Mediterranean fast-casual brand specializing in made-to-order pita sandwiches, announced today the promotion of Meghan Haugen to the position of Chief Operating Officer. In her new role, Meghan will be responsible for overseeing the Operations, Marketing, and Franchising departments, and helping to drive the strategic direction and growth of the company.
With nearly two decades of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, Meghan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. She has been an integral part of Pita Pit’s success, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a relentless commitment to operational excellence.
“I am honored and excited to take on this new role as Chief Operating Officer,” said Meghan Haugen. “I look forward to working with our talented team to continue building on our success, driving innovation, and delivering more value to our customers and franchisees.”
Since joining Pita Pit, Meghan has held various leadership roles, where she has consistently delivered impressive results. Her deep understanding of the brand, coupled with her ability to foster strong relationships with franchisees, vendors, and partners, has positioned her as a key leader within the organization.
“Meghan’s promotion is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and outstanding contributions to Pita Pit,” said Peter Riggs, CEO of Pita Pit. “Her strategic vision and operational expertise will be instrumental in pushing our growth and ensuring that we continue to deliver a better experience to our customers and franchisees.”
In her new role, Meghan will focus on enhancing operational efficiencies, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and supporting the growth and success of Pita Pit’s franchise network. She will work closely with the executive team to develop and execute the company’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the company’s vision and goals.
Pita Pit is committed to providing fresh, healthy, and convenient dining options to customers around the US. With Meghan’s leadership, the company is well-positioned to achieve its future goals and continue its growth trajectory. For additional information about franchising with Pita Pit, visit PitaPitUSA.com/franchising.
About Pita Pit
Founded on the principles of quality ingredients, convenience, and flavor innovation, Pita Pit is a Mediterranean fast-food brand specializing in made-to-order pita sandwiches, providing a satisfying and wholesome dining experience for individuals seeking a quick and nutritious meal on the go. Headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, ID, Pita Pit USA 4.0, Inc., currently has 68 locations across the country, including locations in Alaska. Customers can also download the Pita Pit Rewards app for iOS and Android, where they can earn and redeem rewards. For more information, visit PitaPitUSA.com or follow Pita Pit on Instagram @PitaPitUSA.
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SPB Hospitality Appoints New Vice President of Operations
July 24, 2024
Leading hospitality operator introduces Andy Somers to lead Old Chicago and Brewery Division
Houston, TX (RestaurantNews.com) SPB Hospitality, a leading owner and operator of quick service, casual and fine dining restaurants, announced today that industry veteran Andy Somers has joined the company as Vice President of Operations over their Old Chicago and Brewery Divisions.
Somers brings more than two decades of experience in the restaurant industry, most recently serving as Senior Director of Operations at P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. His extensive career spans from hands-on management roles to high-level corporate positions, showcasing his deep understanding of the industry’s dynamics and his ability to navigate its unique challenges.
“We could not be more excited to welcome Andy to SPB,” said CEO of SPB Hospitality Josh Kern. “Andy’s impressive track record and people-centric leadership style align seamlessly with our commitment to Serve People Better. His proven ability to drive operational excellence and his passion for developing strong, motivated teams will be instrumental in elevating the Old Chicago and Brewery brands. We are confident that Andy’s strategic vision will lead to continued growth and success.”
Throughout his career, Somers has consistently demonstrated a commitment to nurturing talent and building strong, motivated teams. His leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, innovation and a deep respect for the people he works with, making him an ideal fit for SPB’s mission to put people at the heart of everything they do.
Somers’ appointment underscores SPB Hospitality’s dedication to continuous innovation and excellence throughout its concepts. His strategic vision, operational expertise and fresh ideas will be central to the continued success and culture of growth at Old Chicago, as well as with SPB’s brewery division, which includes Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery and Gordon Biersch Brewery.
SPB Hospitality manages various iconic restaurants and breweries, including Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom, Krystal, J. Alexander’s, Stoney River, Logan’s Roadhouse and more. With a commitment to serving people better, SPB strives to create unique flavors, memorable moments and cherished memories for guests to enjoy across all of its establishments.
To learn more about SPB Hospitality, visit SPBhospitality.com.
About SPB Hospitality
SPB Hospitality is a leading operator and franchisor of full-service dining restaurants across 38 U.S. states and territories. With a national footprint encompassing hundreds of restaurants and breweries, SPB Hospitality is dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences. SPB Hospitality’s diverse portfolio of restaurant brands includes Logan’s Roadhouse, Krystal Restaurants, Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom, and an impressive collection of high-end restaurant brands such as J. Alexander’s and Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill.
As one of the country’s largest operators of craft brewery restaurants, SPB Hospitality takes pride in its craft beer expertise. SPB Hospitality proudly owns and operates renowned craft brewery restaurant brands like Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, ChopHouse & Brewery, Big River Grille & Brewing Works, AIA Ale Works Restaurant & Taproom, Ragtime Tavern Seafood & Grill, and Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery.
Visit our website at SPBhospitality.com to explore the exceptional flavors, inviting atmospheres, and unparalleled dining experiences that await you at SPB Hospitality’s restaurants and breweries.
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Denny's Inc. Announces Two Executive Appointments: Chief People Officer and Denny's Chief Brand Officer
Spartanburg, SC, July 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Denny’s Inc. (NASDAQ: DENN) announced today the appointment of two new executive leaders: Monigo G. Saygbay-Hallie, Ph.D. joins as executive vice president, chief people officer for Denny’s Corporation, effective August 5, and Patty Trevino joins as Denny’s senior vice president, chief brand officer, effective August 12.
Celebrated human resources, talent manager and culture leader Monigo G. Saygbay-Hallie will serve as executive vice president, chief people officer for Denny’s Corporation at the enterprise level, leading people initiatives across Denny’s and Keke’s Breakfast Café. Saygbay-Hallie brings more than 20 years of restaurant and retail experience in leading teams and developing talent. She joins Denny’s, having most recently served as chief people officer at Checkers & Rally’s Drive-In restaurants. Before Checkers, she served in HR leadership roles at Sysco Corporation, and YUM! Brands.
“It is a tremendous opportunity to join a legacy brand like Denny’s and Keke’s as a growing brand. I’m most looking forward to helping to expand and elevate the culture and benefit the brand’s people,” said Saygbay-Hallie.
The company also welcomes accomplished marketing and brand leader Patty Trevino as Denny’s senior vice president, chief brand officer. Trevino brings two decades of experience in the restaurant industry and most recently served as executive vice president, chief marketing officer at Red Lobster. She has also held marketing leadership roles at Carl’s, Jr., Bloomin’ Brands and Burger King. Trevino’s position focuses on Denny’s restaurants, overseeing all facets of branding including strategy, public relations, social and digital marketing, consumer experience and product innovation.
“Denny’s is THE iconic American restaurant brand. They are America’s diner. Being part of this stellar team, strengthening our guests' value proposition, delivering craveable food, and enhancing brand love and affinity will be a true honor,” said Trevino.
Both roles will report to Kelli Valade, Denny’s Inc. president and CEO. “Monigo and Patty are proven leaders who will contribute immediately to our company and brand strategies,” said Valade. “They both have invaluable experience that will provide a positive impact on our teams, franchisees and guests. We are giving them a warm welcome to the Denny’s family.”
For more information, please visit dennys.com.
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, and our annual fundraiser with No Kid Hungry.
Denny's is one of the largest franchised full-service restaurant brands in the world, based on the number of restaurants. As of March 27, 2024, the Company consisted of 1,553 restaurants, 1,489 of which were franchised and licensed restaurants and 64 of which were company operated. This includes 168 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, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn or YouTube.
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