Columbus, Ohio-based Donatos Pizza announced Wednesday that CEO Tom Krouse is retiring in October after 14 years at the helm of the pizza company. Krouse’s successor will be Kevin King, who is currently serving as president of Donatos Pizza.
Krouse has been working for Donatos Pizza for more than 20 years, joining the company in 2000 after 13 years at Wendy’s. Since then, he worked his way up from senior vice president of marketing to CEO, where he has served since 2010. Under his leadership, Donatos doubled in size to 178 units, according to the most recent Technomic data.
"I feel like the luckiest guy alive to have had the opportunity to lead a company with amazing people and an awesome mission," Krouse said in a statement. "I'm truly honored. I am so happy for Kevin and Donatos because he is the perfect choice to take this company into the future."
Incoming CEO Kevin King has been working as president of Donatos for two years. Previously, King had served as chief development officer of Smoothie King for six years, and also previously served as chief development officer for Papa Murphy’s. As incoming CEO, King hopes to focus on growth and innovation.
"Tom's leadership and counsel since rejoining Donatos has been nothing short of exceptional," King said in a statement. "He's been a phenomenal mentor and a true friend. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from him and build upon his legacy. Together, with our talented and diverse leadership team, I'm excited to continue to elevate Donatos' reputation for delicious food, strong community ties, and an unwavering commitment to our values."
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