Atlanta — Tropical Smoothie Cafe® evolves its leadership team as it continues to drive operational excellence and expansion. The company has appointed Jonathan Biggs as chief operating officer (COO) and has promoted Chris Sasser to chief financial officer (CFO) and Karen Wickliffe to general counsel (GC).
Biggs joins Tropical Smoothie Cafe from Baskin-Robbins, where he served as brand head, overseeing operations across the United States. With over a decade of experience in field and global operations, he has a proven track record of driving restaurant profitability through technology and operational innovations that improve the guest experience.
Following the retirement of his predecessor, Sasser steps into the CFO role, bringing deep financial acumen and strategic leadership to guide the brand’s continued expansion. Sasser has played an instrumental role in shaping Tropical Smoothie Cafe’s fiscal strategy and performance.
Wickliffe has been promoted to general counsel, succeeding the brand’s previous legal leader, who retired at the end of 2024. Wickliffe, who has spent 7 years with the brand, will oversee all legal functions and will partner with leadership and business stakeholders on strategic initiatives as the brand continues its rapid expansion.
“These leadership appointments mark an exciting new chapter for Tropical Smoothie Cafe,” says CEO Max Wetzel. “Jonathan’s operational expertise, combined with Chris and Karen’s proven leadership in finance and legal strategy, will strengthen our ability to support franchisees and build on our incredible growth momentum.”
Tropical Smoothie Cafe was founded in 1997; today, it has more than 1,500 locations in 44 states. For more information, visit www.tropicalsmoothiefranchise.com.
SOURCE: Tropical Smoothie Cafe