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.
A handful of leadership changes occurred across some big regional and national chains this week, with Subway hiring a new CIO and Kona Grill appointing an interim CEO while it searches for a permanent chief. Both of these companies have been struggling to boost sales in recent years, so these appointments could dramatically shift the company's strategies going forward.
Check out the latest restaurant executive changes below:
April 8
Subway: The sandwich chain has named Mike Marcie as CIO. He will oversee the company’s technology initiatives and global teams to ensure that modern and effective platforms are available for Subway owners and guests. He most recently worked as CIO at Land O’ Lakes where he led a transformation and digital effort to modernize the corporation’s core applications, according to a press release.
Kona Grill: Christi Hing has been appointed interim CEO while the company searches for a permanent replacement. She is the current CFO at the company. The appointment comes shortly after Marcus Jundt stepped down as CEO along with two other board members.
April 9
Farmer Boys: Arlene Estrada Petokas has been named the fast casual brand's vice president and chief people officer. Petokas will be responsible for developing and executing people strategies that support the company’s operational goals and to help drive performance within the organization, according to a press release emailed to Restaurant Dive. She has more than 20 years of experience in human resources and has spent over a decade at QSR companies, most recently working at Del Taco.
