Name: Todd Ewen
New title: Senior vice president and chief development officer, Whataburger
Previous title: Owner/manager, L3 Commercial Development
Ewen brings two decades of commercial real estate experience to his new position at Whataburger. Ewen founded L3 Commercial development in 2017. In that role, he led over $300 million in lease and purchase transactions and built up a network of brokers, developers and investors.
His experience includes site selection and strategic growth as well, according to a press release emailed to Restaurant Dive. His résumé also includes over seven years at McDonald’s where he was development director for over three years and regional real estate manager for over four, according to his LinkedIn profile. During his time at McDonald’s, he supported the brand’s growth strategy.
In his new position, Ewen will lead the burger chain’s growth strategy as it expands into new states. The chain has opened stores in six new states since 2019, including Florida and Georgia. Whataburger will enter its 17th state, North Carolina, later this year, the company said. The company surpassed 1,000 open locations last year. The company also entered into a partnership with Love’s Travel Shops to open a location in San Antonio, Texas, later this year.
“We plan to bring Honey Butter Biscuits and great hospitality to more than 24 million new customers this year,” said Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Alexander Ivannikov. “Todd’s deep understanding of real estate in the quick service restaurant industry will be integral in helping Whataburger execute our growth strategy, bringing delicious food and a great experience to new markets and new fans.”
Ewen’s appointment comes roughly two months after the chain promoted Debbie Stroud to CEO from her post as chief operating officer.
