franchise development

San Diego, Calif. — Mike’s Red Tacos, a San Diego-born beef Birria brand, has brought on Patrick Cunningham as chief development officer. The appointment comes on the heels of the company’s recent franchising strategy announcement and continued development momentum, with more than 200 franchise locations already in the pipeline. Cunningham previously served as chief development officer at Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay, and before that, vice president of U.S. development for Little Caesars. Cunningham also spent more than 20 years at Dunkin’ and Inspire Brands. He joins newly named company …

Youngstown, Ohio — Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has appointed Naveen Dasa as chief financial officer, adding a dynamic and accomplished finance executive to its leadership team. Dasa brings more than a decade of experience spanning franchising, restaurant operations and consumer brands — including roles at Shake Shack, BakeMark and Yum! Brands. He previously spent 10 years with Yum! Brands advancing through finance and strategy roles across Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Yum! Corporate — most notably, Dasa played a key role in designing and implementing Pizza Hut’s systemwide asset upgrade …

Atlanta — Krystal has promoted Amanda Hyde to chief operating officer. Hyde will report directly to SPB Hospitality’s chairman and CEO, G.J. Hart, and take on expanded responsibility for systemwide operations as the brand continues its growth strategy. Hyde brings more than two decades of restaurant industry experience spanning operations, brand leadership and multi-unit management. Since joining SPB Hospitality, she has played a central role in improving operational performance and supporting the company’s strategy to revitalize and expand the Krystal brand. “Amanda is a respected operator with deep knowledge of …

Fort Worth, Texas — HTeaO, the nation’s leading iced tea franchise, has appointed two key executive leadership appointments: Jerry McClain as vice president of store development and Brian Aga as senior vice president of operations. These additions follow the recent appointment of a new chief financial officer, Chris Phillips. With more than 40 new store openings projected for 2026 and sustained double-digit growth, HTeaO continues to invest in leadership that supports franchise partners and protects the consistency of the brand experience. “As HTeaO continues to grow, building the right leadership …