franchise development

Los Angeles — Sweetgreen, Inc. has appointed Cindy Olsen as the company’s senior vice president, chief strategy officer, a newly created role reporting to CEO Jonathan Neman, effective immediately. Olsen joins Sweetgreen from Chipotle Mexican Grill. “Cindy is known for her ability to drive profitable growth through a disciplined approach to strategic decision-making,” says Jonathan Neman, co-founder and CEO of Sweetgreen. “She is the perfect addition to the executive team at this juncture in our transformation, with deep consumer and restaurant industry experience and a track record of bringing rigor …

Dublin, Ohio — The Wendy’s Company’s board of directors has appointed Robert D. “Bob” Wright as Wendy’s new president and chief executive officer, effective May 21, 2026. Most recently with Potbelly, Wright also joins the Wendy’s board of directors. Prior to his current post, Wright served as president and chief executive officer of Potbelly Corporation. Prior experience includes multiple senior leadership roles at Wendy’s, including as executive vice president, chief operations officer, as well as leadership positions at Charleys Philly Steaks, Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, Inc. and Domino’s Pizza, Inc. “Following …

San Diego — The board of directors of Jack in the Box Inc. has appointed Mark King as executive chairman and interim chief executive officer, effective immediately. King, a member of the board since November 2025 and its chair since March 2026, succeeds Lance Tucker. Alan Smolinisky, a member of the board since November 2025, has been appointed lead independent director. King previously served as CEO of Taco Bell Corp., where he led franchise operations and enhanced consumer engagement during a period of significant growth. He also served as CEO …