franchise development

Orlando, Fla. — Sonny’s BBQ, an industry-leading BBQ restaurant, has added Matt Zeiger to its team as chief financial & development officer. In this key leadership role, he will oversee finance and development, bringing his strategic vision and deep expertise to support Sonny’s growth plan. “Matt brings an impressive 25 years of exceptional financial and operational leadership, having worked with some of the most respected restaurant franchise brands in the industry,” says George McAllan, chief growth officer at Sonny’s BBQ. “His depth of expertise will help guide Sonny’s BBQ as …

Tampa, Fla. — Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. has implemented a series of senior leadership appointments designed to support the company’s ongoing business turnaround, focusing on the Outback Steakhouse brand. “The Bloomin Brands leadership team has broad operational and restaurant experience across diverse consumer facing businesses. As we reinvigorate sales and profit growth in our restaurants, our leaders are committed to our founder’s values of leading growth that is enabled by our people with a passion for guest hospitality,” says Mike Spanos, chief executive officer. “These organizational updates enhance our bench strength, …

Atlanta — Ascent Hospitality Management, franchisor to Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has promoted Nicholas Mason to chief financial officer. In this role, Mason will oversee financial operations for Ascent, including strategic financial planning, capital management, and supporting the company’s long term growth strategy. Formerly Ascent’s vice president of finance, Mason joined the company in October 2024 and has played a pivotal role in strengthening Ascent’s financial infrastructure. He brings more than 15 years of experience in restaurant finance, with previous leadership roles at Papa Johns and Craftwork …

Charlotte, N.C. — Skiptown, a first-of-its-kind, tech-enabled pet care facility offering dog daycare, boarding, full service grooming, and a bar & park featuring indoor and outdoor off-leash play, is gearing up for national growth with a new leadership team in place. Seasoned executive Mike Rotondo has joined the organization as chief executive officer, and he named Molly Fisher as chief financial officer and Kristen Risby as head of marketing & communications. Skiptown is an emerging brand that caters to pups and their people. The brand currently has locations in Atlanta; …

San Francisco — Starbird, a trailblazer in super-premium fast food, has appointed Maria Rivera as chief executive officer and to its board of directors. Rivera, an accomplished industry leader known for scaling some of the sector’s most dynamic brands, assumes leadership of the company. Founder Aaron Noveshen will transition fully to his role as chairman of the board. This move marks a defining moment for Starbird, signaling its bold next chapter as it accelerates national expansion, franchise growth and strong brand awareness — fueled by the vision of its founder, …