This is the latest installment in a series that highlights major executive changes at top fast casual, QSR and casual dining chains over the past week.
This week's executive hires and promotions have been focused on bringing in marketing experts and executives to help chains grow, such as Inspire Brand's promotion hiring of a new chief development officer and McAlister's Deli bringing on a new CMO.
Check out the latest executive changes below:
June 13
City Barbecue: The company has hired Judy Kadylak as its first CMO and Diane Reed as its new CFO, according to a company release. Kadylak previously served in various marketing positions at Steak 'n Shake, Bruegger's Bagels and Chipotle. Reed has worked at Bravo Brio Restaurant Group, as well as Frisch's, Wendy's and Victoria's Secret.
June 12
Inspire Brands: Don Crocker has been hired as chief development officer while Christopher Held will become chief supply officer, according to a company announcement. Crocker will lead all aspects of franchise restaurant develop, including real estate and construction, architecture and design, franchise recruitment and facilities management. He previously served as SVP of real estate for Inspire and worked at Chick-fil-A for over two decades. Held will oversee efforts to centralize supply chain functions at Buffalo Wild Wings, Sonic Drive-In, Rusty Taco and Arby's international locations. Held previously worked at Restaurant Supply Chain Solutions, the supply chain management organization for Yum Brands. He also worked at KFC as SVP and oversaw supply chain for 4,500 KFC locations.
June 11
McAlister's Deli: Natalia Franco is the sandwich chain's new CMO, where she will manage the marketing strategy and evolution of the brand, according to Nation's Restaurant News. She previously served as chief brand and innovation officer at California Pizza Kitchen, as well as SVP of marketing and culinary. Her most recent position was at her own firm BrandMark Global.
Sweetgreen: Galley Foods CEO Alan Clifford has become the fast casual chain's VP of logistics following the acquisition of Galley Foods.
June 10
Wahlburgers: Dan Wheeler has joined the burger chain as SVP of marketing and innovation, according to Fast Casual. He will oversee the expansion of the company's "Go Wahl Out" platform and help the company grow. He served various roles at Dunkin' Brands over the last eight years where he oversaw global innovations in marketing technology, new products and concepts.
