Famous Brands names Dustin Lyman CEOFamous Brands names Dustin Lyman CEO

Dustin Lyman, formerly the chief financial officer at Famous Brands International, is now the company’s chief executive officer. Photo: Famous Brands International

Famous Brands International, parent to the Mrs. Fields Cookies and TCBY brands, has promoted former chief financial officer Dustin Lyman to the role of CEO, the company said this week.

Lyman, who was a tight end for the Chicago Bears NFL team from 2000 through 2005, is the third CEO in three years for Broomfield, Colo.-based Famous Brands International. He replaces Jonathan Drake, who was appointed CEO last year. At the time, Drake replaced Neal Courtney, who was named CEO in 2013. 

Lyman joined Famous Brands in 2013, as director of finance. He has played an increasing role in the company’s strategic plan, which has included investing in unit-level improvements, adding units in key markets, streamlining supply-chain contracts, improving operational efficiencies and revamping e-commerce sites. The company also recently acquired the Maxfield Candy and Nutty Guys brands, adding to its snack products.

Famous Brands has also begun rolling out self-service TCBY vending machines for nontraditional locations.

Before joining Famous Brands, and after his years as a professional athlete, Lyman held key financial positions at Vail Resorts and Dish Networks, the company said.

Famous Brands is a portfolio company of Z Capital Partners LLC, the private-equity arm of Z Capital Group. 

“Dustin has been an integral part of creating and executing Famous Brands’ strategic vision over the last several years, and I am pleased he will be taking on additional responsibilities in his new role as CEO,” said James Zenni, president and CEO of Z Capital. “Importantly, Dustin’s strong leadership abilities and management philosophy have resonated with franchisees, licensees and business partners who share his belief that great success is achieved through teamwork.”

Famous Brands operates and franchises more than 750 locations in 33 countries.

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