CARROLLTON Texas T.G.I. Friday's has appointed Ian Saunders to the new post of president and chief operating officer of its international division.
Saunders most recently worked for Papa John's International Inc. as its regional vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. At Friday's, he will be responsible for all aspects of the casual-dining chain's international business, including its growth strategy. Currently, 325 of Friday's 917 restaurants are international locations, a spokesman said.
"Adding Ian to our international business and our executive team is a huge win for us," said Nick Shepherd, president and chief executive of Friday's parent company, Carlson Restaurants Worldwide. "Ian's extensive global knowledge and innovative thinking combined with his successful track record of driving and sustaining aggressive business growth in the global marketplace, make him the ideal candidate for this key role in our business."
Before Papa John's, Saunders spent six years with the United Kingdom-based Geest Ltd., which manufactures and distributes produce and prepared foods. He also has held various leadership roles at Yum! Brands Inc.
Carlson Restaurants Worldwide, which also owns the Pick Up Stix fast-casual brand, operates, franchises or licenses more than 1,000 restaurants in 60 countries.
Contact Molly Gise at [email protected].
