SPB Hospitality has named Michael Casey as its new chief development officer. In this role, he will oversee real estate, licensing, franchising and development for the company’s portfolio, which includes J. Alexander’s, Logan’s Roadhouse, Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom and, most recently, Krystal.
His appointment comes on the heels of Josh Kern’s recent promotion as the permanent CEO of the company.
“Michael has demonstrated his ability to successfully represent a myriad of franchise concepts both within and outside the hospitality space. His knowledge of the markets, the brokers, multi-unit franchisees seeking expansion, along with a keen business sense will help our brands work together to offer operators more customized growth packages than ever before,” Kern said in a statement.
Casey joins SPB from Ideal Image, where he was responsible for overhauling its development function, including lease administration and renewal, landlord relations, and facilities management. He spent much of his career at leading restaurant brands managing the development of new units and teams, as well as driving growth initiatives and brand strategy.
“I am thrilled to join SPB Hospitality and work with a talented team of restaurateurs across the country,” he said in a statement. “SPB has an incredible line-up of brands that all present unique challenges and opportunities. I look forward to bringing my perspective to SPB’s growth strategy and working closely with our current and future franchise partners.”
SPB Hospitality operates and franchises restaurants across 37 U.S. states and territories. In a recent interview, Kern said the company is “starting to turn on its business drivers and look at its growth potential.”
Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]
