Manasquan, N.J. — Jersey Mike’s Subs, a leading franchisor of fast-casual sandwich shops, has appointed Michele Allen as chief financial officer, effective Dec.1, 2025. Allen brings more than 25 years of financial leadership at the intersection of hospitality and franchising.
As CFO, Allen will oversee the company’s global finance organization, supply chain and enterprise performance management as Jersey Mike’s scales its footprint across the U.S. and into key international markets. Allen steps into a key role previously held by Walter Tombs, who is retiring from Jersey Mike’s in January 2026 after 26 years with the company. Tombs will continue to support Jersey Mike’s in the transition over the next year as an advisor.
“First and foremost, we thank Walt for his exceptional leadership in his 26 years of service to Jersey Mike’s. His impact over that time is immeasurable, and his leadership through the acquisition by Blackstone positioned the company for long term success,” says Charlie Morrison, chief executive officer of Jersey Mike’s. “As we look ahead, Michele will be an excellent addition to our leadership team, bringing valuable experience to help guide the company through its next phase of evolution as we continue to scale. Her deep expertise in franchise-first business models, combined with her track record of building high-performing finance teams and leading through transformation at one of the largest publicly traded hospitality companies, makes her exceptionally well-suited to support our continued growth. Michele understands what it takes to grow a franchise organization while preserving the culture and operational excellence that define great brands, and we’re thrilled to have her on board for Jersey Mike’s next chapter.”
Most recently, Allen served as chief financial officer and head of strategy at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest franchising companies. During her tenure, Allen helped guide the company through complex transactions, strategic transformation, macro disruptions and the demands of the public markets with consistency and clarity.
Allen’s appointment follows several recent leadership additions as Jersey Mike’s strategically bolsters its executive team for its next phase of growth. In recent months, the company has welcomed Stacy Peterson as president and chief operating officer to drive U.S. operations, Betsy Mercado as chief people officer to strengthen people strategy and culture, and Andy Skehan as president of international to lead global growth initiatives. Together, this world-class leadership team positions Jersey Mike’s to accelerate its franchise-first growth, enhance its guest experience, and build on its strong momentum as it expands worldwide.
Founded in 1956 as Mike’s Subs with one location in Point Pleasant, N.J., Jersey Mike’s has grown into a premier franchisor with more than 3,100 locations in the U.S. and Canada.
SOURCE: Jersey Mike’s Subs