Salt Lake City — Kneaders Bakery & Café has named Neil Checketts as its new chief operating officer, effective immediately. For the past year and since his time with Kneaders, Checketts has served as vice president of food safety and quality assurance.
people
Jackson, Miss. — Newk’s Eatery has named Michael Clock the chain’s new CFO. He will closely manage Newk’s financial trajectory, deliver crucial brand support and guide financial communications for Newk’s as it gears up to nearly double in size by 2019. This aggressive growth plan will see the brand expanding from its current 103 locations to approximately 200 units within 3 years.
Toronto — Staples Canada has named Mary Sagat its new president, effective September 7, 2016. During her 19 years with the company, Sagat has served as senior vice president of finance and, most recently, as senior vice president of sales and operations. She will be reporting directly to Steve Matyas, president of North American retail.
Boca Raton, Fla. — Roland Smith plans to retire as chief executive officer of Office Depot, Inc. He will continue to serve as CEO until a successor is named, which is expected by the end of first quarter 2017. It is expected Smith will remain chairman of the board.
Aventua, Fla. — The board of directors of Benihana Inc., operator of Benihana, RA Sushi and Haru Sushi restaurants, has named Thomas J. Baldwin its new chief executive officer and president. Baldwin will be based in Aventura, Fla., and responsible for Benihana’s 100 Benihana, RA Sushi and Haru Sushi restaurants as well as the 10 Benihana franchised restaurants.