The sandwich chain names Carrie Walsh as interim CEO
John Chidsey, global CEO of Subway, will retire at the end of 2024 after five years in the role, the company said Tuesday. Carrie Walsh, Subway's president of Europe, Middle East, and Africa and former global chief marketing officer, will assume the role of interim CEO.
Subway, which has headquarters in Miami and Shelton, Conn., said it would conduct a search for a permanent CEO successor.
Chidsey joined Subway in 2019 as the brand’s first CEO outside of the founding family.
“Under John’s leadership, Subway has been transformed,” Clay Harmon, a Subway director, said in a statement. “His vision and passion have set a high standard that will continue to guide the brand for years to come. Carrie is uniquely qualified to lead Subway through the transition, bringing a blend of expertise in global operations, brand innovation, and digital transformation, which will bring continuity and support Subway’s next chapter.”
Walsh has worked with Yum! Brands, Pizza Hut, and PepsiCo. She joined Subway in 2019. Most recently, Walsh served as president EMEA, Subways second-largest region, where she oversaw operations, finance, marketing, and development across 50 countries and territories.
"I am honored to step into the role of Interim CEO, continuing to drive key initiatives to help boost franchisee profitability and delight our guests through innovation," Walsh said in a statement. "Through a collaboration with the Subway leadership team, employees, and our valued franchisees, we will keep elevating the Subway experience and deliver fresh, quality food to more guests around the globe."
Chidsey will transition to a consulting role with a focus on the company’s international growth strategy and master franchisee relationships.
"It has been a privilege to lead Subway through a period of exciting change, and I am so proud of what the team has achieved together," Chidsey said. "I've worked closely with Carrie over the past five years, and I've witnessed firsthand her deep understanding of what it takes for a global brand to grow and evolve. Combined with her steadfast commitment to Subway and its franchisees, I'm confident Carrie is the right leader to shepherd Subway through this transition as we continue to enhance our position as a leading global restaurant brand."
Atlanta-based Roark Capital completed its purchase of the brand in April. Subway has about 37,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries and territories.
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