Bojangles COO Brian Unger to retire in MarchBojangles COO Brian Unger to retire in March

Bojangles chief operating officer Brian Unger will retire from his position effective no earlier than March 31, the company announced Friday.

Unger will continue to serve as COO until his official retirement, leading day-to-day operations and supporting the company’s operations goals.

The Charlotte, N.C.-based company has partnered with Elliot & Associates to find a replacement for Unger before his retirement.

“During his time at Bojangles, Brian has been instrumental in improving operations and leading through the challenges of the past two years,” Bojangles CEO Jose Armario said in a statement. “With a career that spans four decades in the QSR industry, his leadership has significantly contributed to Bojangles’ success. We thank him for his commitment to the company and wish him the very best as he retires.” 

Unger joined the quick-service brand in 2019 after spending 20 years at McDonald’s, ending his tenure as SVP of operations. After that, Unger worked as COO for Einstein Noah Restaurants Group, Inc., and was President and COO at seafood chain Long John Silver’s.

“Bojangles has a 45-year history of delivering great Southern food and service to our guests and supporting the communities we serve,” Unger said in a statement. “It has been an honor to serve alongside Jose, and our executive leadership team, franchisees, operators and so many talented folks at Bojangles, and I am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. Bojangles is a strong brand, and I will always root for its success while also enjoying more quality time with my family.” 

Bojangles promoted John Freeman to vice president of operations and support, where he will lead operations and support for Bojangles’ company-owned restaurants. He will report to the COO. Freeman has more than 15 years of senior-level leadership experience with franchise brands, including KFC and Taco Bell.