The Krystal Co. has named industry veteran Omar Janjua president and chief executive, effective Jan. 21, the company said Thursday.
Janjua succeeds Krystal’s interim CEO, Harsha Agadi, who took over in September to replace Doug Pendergast, who left the Atlanta-based company. Agadi will continue as Krystal's non-executive board chairman.
Janjua most recently was president of Oklahoma City-based Sonic Restaurants Inc. and chief restaurant operations officer for Sonic Industries.
Prior to Sonic, Janjua served as executive vice president and chief operating officer for Steak ’n Shake. Before that, he worked for 18 years with Pizza Hut.
“Krystal is a brand with a unique position in the marketplace that enjoys a special relationship with its guests,” Janjua said in a statement. “I look forward to working with the team to expand the passion and loyalty that runs so deep in the brand history to a new and widening consumer base.”
Krystal was acquired by Argonne Capital Group in March 2012.
“Argonne’s success is built on investment into proven brands and partnership with leaders who can drive those businesses to further heights,” said Michael Klump, Argonne’s founder, president and CEO. “We are excited to have him as part of our team and know his extensive experience and strategic abilities will help lead The Krystal Co. into a period of increased consumer relevance, growth and profitability.”
Krystal was founded in 1932 in Chattanooga, Tenn., and has more than 350 restaurants in 11 states.
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