Executive Leadership Changes in the Restaurant Industry
Restaurants Sonny's BBQ, Eggs Up Grill, and others announce high-ranking changes
There have been several notable changes in the executive leadership of various restaurant chains. Here's a roundup of the recent shifts:
Noodles & Company
Joseph Christina, the current president and COO, has been promoted to president and CEO of Noodles & Company, effective August 31, 2025. He is replacing Drew Madsen, who is stepping down due to personal medical reasons. Madsen will, however, remain on the board to support the transition [1][2][3][4][5].
Smashburger
Smashburger has named Jim Sullivan as its new CEO, but further details about the previous CEO's departure are not available.
Sonny's BBQ
Matt Zeiger has joined Sonny's BBQ as the new chief financial and development officer. Debbie Pirone, with two decades of experience in operations, training, and franchise development at Domino's Pizza, is the new director of training & operations. Eric High, previously director of franchise operations at Inspire Brands overseeing 650 franchised Dunkin' units across the South Central U.S., is the new director of franchise relations.
Luna Grill
Rich Pinnella has been named as the new CEO of Luna Grill.
Mokas Coffee & Eatery
Jason Ingermanson is the new president of Mokas Coffee & Eatery. Scott Redler has shifted to a seat on the board of directors. Chris Parvin is stepping down from his position as president.
Pizza Factory (California-based)
Lisa Roscoe has been named as the CEO of Pizza Factory.
Pyramid Global Hospitality
Anthony Torres has been appointed as vice president of food and beverage for Pyramid Global Hospitality, which manages over 250 hotels and resorts worldwide. The company's culinary outlets include fine dining, speakeasy-style bars, and more.
Eggs Up Grill
Julie Krupa has been promoted to VP of real estate development at Eggs Up Grill.
White Rhino Coffee
Sara Escamilla, previously COO at White Rhino Coffee, has taken over as president and CEO.
Perkins, Huddle House, and White Rhino Coffee
There are no recent executive leadership changes reported for Perkins, Huddle House, and White Rhino Coffee in the provided search results. Additional up-to-date information may be required from other sources for these chains.
[1] Noodles & Company Press Release [2] Restaurant Business Online [3] QSR Magazine [4] Nation's Restaurant News [5] Food Service Director
- In the restaurant industry, franchising has led to several changes in executive leadership, such as Joseph Christina being promoted to CEO at Noodles & Company and Rich Pinnella taking the helm at Luna Grill.
- Moreover, there have been financial appointments in various chains, like Matt Zeiger joining Sonny's BBQ as the CFO, and Anthony Torres being appointed as vice president of food and beverage at Pyramid Global Hospitality.
