The rapidly growing Smashburger chain announced Wednesday the promotion of Greg Creighton to president, along with several other key executive moves.
Creighton, formerly the chain’s chief operating officer, reports to chair and chief executive Dave Prokupek.
In a rejiggering of the management team to better support the company’s growth, the Denver-based better burger brand has added several senior vice presidents:
• Chris Chang, previously a vice president at Smashburger’s parent private-equity firm Consumer Capital Partners, was named senior vice president of finance and strategy for the chain.
Prior to joining Consumer Capital Partners, Chang worked at Vail Resorts in corporate development. He also has experience at Western Union/First Data and Goldman Sachs.
• Jeremy Morgan has been promoted to senior vice president of marketing and consumer insights. He previously served as Smashburger’s vice president, strategy.
• Max Sheets was appointed senior vice president, real estate. His prior position was vice president, real estate.
• Doug Branigan remains in the role of senior vice president, franchising, but has assumed the added responsibility of leading franchise sales and relations, as well as staying involved in franchise real estate and development.
• At the vice president level, Smashburger promoted Jim Ernster to the post of vice president, construction. He will lead franchise development for both company and franchise locations. Previously, Ernster served as director of construction.
• Doug Thielen is a new hire as vice president, communications. Thielen previously served as manager of nontraditional marketing and public relations for Qdoba Mexican Grill.
The fast-casual Smashburger chain operates or franchises 115 restaurants nationwide and aims to expand to about 500 units over the next few years.
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