restaurants

Miami — According to CEO Josh Kobza, Restaurant Brands International (RBI) has made two key leadership appointments.  Peter Perdue has been appointed president of Popeyes, U.S. and Canada, succeeding Jeff Klein who will be leaving the company. Perdue, a 12-year RBI veteran, most recently served as chief operating officer of Burger King U.S. & Canada, where he was instrumental in the brand’s Reclaim the Flame operations turnaround. His experience spans operations, franchising and finance, including leadership as regional vice president for Burger King in the Asia Pacific region. Nicolas (Nico) Henrich has been appointed …

Atlanta — Ascent Hospitality Management, franchisor to Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has appointed Paul Damico as chief executive officer, effective immediately. As CEO, Damico will lead Ascent’s next chapter of growth and modernization, building on the company’s long history of bringing people together around great food and supporting franchisees’ success. He will also explore opportunities to expand Ascent’s portfolio through the acquisition of additional brands that align with the company’s growth strategy, vision and values. Damico brings over four decades of extensive food and beverage experience within …

St. Louis — Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast-casual restaurant industry, has appointed Earl Ellis as chief financial officer, effective immediately. Ellis will report to CEO Paul Carbone and join the executive leadership team. “Earl is a proven finance leader who blends disciplined financial stewardship with an owner’s mindset,” says Carbone. “He has scaled complex, multi-brand organizations, led successful transformations and developed high-performing teams. His experience will help accelerate our plan to strengthen the core business, elevate the guest experience and drive long term, profitable growth. Panera …