Dive Brief:

• Jeremiah’s Italian Ice appointed Michael Keller as its CEO and president, succeeding founder and CEO Jeremy Litwack, the company said Tuesday. 
• Keller will oversee the brand, business and franchise system going forward while Litwack will remain on as brand ambassador.
• The company also hired its first director of research and development, a director of supply chain, and promoted an employee to senior director of franchise operations.

Dive Insight:

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice’s leadership changes come as the brand is growing, reaching its 100th location last year. The company, which has 116 units, plans to open 45 units in 2023 and expects to reach 300 locations within the next three to four years, largely through franchising. Keller’s experience will help the company continue its current growth trajectory. His previous roles include CEO and president of Pearson Candy Company, CMO of International Dairy Queen, VP of marketing at Jamba Juice and SVP of marketing for Baskin Robbins USA. 

Erin Buono, who previously served as director of beverage innovation at Earl Enterprises and Virtual Dining Concepts, joins the brand as director of research and development. Buono spent over 11 years at Sonic Drive-In in roles related to product development, according to her LinkedIn profile.

Adam Hing, who most recently served as manager, purchasing and supply chain management at Ruth’s Chris, will become Jeremiah’s supply chain director. He has held positions at Bloomin’ Brands, Darden Restaurants, Brinker and Earl Enterprises, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Juliana Voyles, formerly Jeremiah’s operations director, was promoted to senior director of franchise operations. She has been with the chain for over 10 years, according to her LinkedIn profile.

“With a record number of stores opened in 2022, and even more in store for 2023, I am confident that Jeremiah's growth will continue,” Keller said in a press release. “We are proactively positioning the brand and building the necessary infrastructure to support both our current and future franchisees.” 

In addition to the leadership changes, the company has engaged Sundell & Associates to provide distribution and logistics support for the supply chain. Jeremiah’s recently launched Jeremiah’s Franchisee Advisory Council, which is made up of area representatives and multi-unit and single-unit operators from seven different U.S. regions. The FAC was created to provide franchisees the ability to help shape the future of the brand and work closely with the support center on decisions for the system.