Samir Wagle has stepped down as CEO of Protein Bar, the company said recently.
Sally Pofcher, formerly CEO of stationery retailer Paper Source, has been named interim CEO. Chicago-based Protein Bar said that Wagle stepped down “to pursue other opportunities.”
“I have known Sally for several years, and have long respected her focus on consumer experience, attention to detail and drive for excellence,” Matt Matros, Protein Bar’s founder, said in a statement. “I could not be more thrilled to have her experience and enthusiasm for our brand.”
Protein Bar first opened in Chicago’s Willis Tower, in 2009. The company received $22 million from what is now L Catterton, the private-equity group. Protein Bar has 20 locations, plus two units with its new Thrive360 secondary concept.
Pofcher was CEO of Paper Source from 2007 to 2015, when the chain expanded from 20 stores to 110 units, and was sold to the private-equity firm Investcorp. Pofcher recently ceded her CEO position, and is now Paper Source’s chairman.
Protein Bar said Pofcher would focus on “continuing the menu and brand innovation” the chain has undertaken. She will also help Protein Bar develop a strategy to grow in existing and new markets.
“We are confident she will help us continue to successfully execute on our mission to change the way people eat on the go with healthy, flavorful food provided quickly and efficiently,” Matros added. “We thank Samir for his leadership and contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors.”
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