Steve Heeley will take the lead as president and chief executive of Earl of Sandwich, the chain’s parent company Planet Hollywood Group of Companies said Thursday.
Heeley replaces Seth Makowsky, who is no longer with the company.
"As we embark on our tremendous growth phase, I am delighted that Steve has joined the company. His vast experience with growing other brands in the fast-casual restaurant segment will be key to our future success," said Planet Hollywood Group president and chief executive David Crabtree. "With his strong operations and leadership background, Steve has the experience and drive that will prove invaluable as we continue to grow Earl of Sandwich."
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Most recently, Heeley was chief operating officer of Au Bon Pain. Before that, he served as senior vice president and chief operating officer of Baja Fresh Mexican Grill for seven years. He has more than 20 years experience in the fast-casual restaurant segment.
"I am thrilled to be taking the lead at Earl of Sandwich, a brand that clearly has the potential for significant growth," Heeley said. "Earl of Sandwich is a unique, great food brand that is cutting a new path in fast casual dining. Our legions of raving fans are already pointing the way for our trajectory."
Over the past year, Earl of Sandwich has opened restaurants in New York; Anaheim, Calif.; and Disneyland Paris.
The fast-casual, 15-unit Earl of Sandwich chain is a collaboration between Robert Earl, chairman and founder of Planet Hollywood Group and a direct descendant of the fourth Earl of Sandwich, John Montagu, who is credited with inventing the sandwich in 1762.
Contact Marcella Veneziale at [email protected].
