Shakey's appoints two executivesShakey's appoints two executives

Lisa Jennings

ALHAMBRA Calif. Shakey’s USA has created two new management positions as part of an ongoing plan to grow the 56-year-old pizza chain.

Jake LaJoie has been named chief financial officer, and Craig Hopkins has been named senior vice president of corporate and franchise development, Shakey's said Monday.

Since Jacmar Companies acquired Shakey's in 2004, chief financial officer duties for the brand had been handled by Jacmar CFO Dave Reid. LaJoie’s appointment to the role means Shakey’s will have a dedicated CFO, a spokeswoman for the company explained.

LaJoie most recently served as a vice president of Argonne Capital Group, a private-equity firm based in Atlanta, which owns FMS Management Systems Inc., an IHOP licensee operating 145 restaurants in Florida, and the Stevi B’s Pizza chain. LaJoie will be responsible for managing Shakey’s annual operating plan, budgeting, development and sales forecasts, and analysis of potential acquisitions.

Hopkins previously served in franchise development for the California Crisp Cafe chain, and his resume includes work aiding the growth of many other franchised brands, including Arby’s, Carl’s Jr., Hardee’s, Popeyes, Church’s Chicken, Baja Fresh and La Salsa.

At Shakey’s, Hopkins will be responsible for franchise administration and sales, as well as supervising the design and construction of new stores.

Based in Alhambra, Calif., the Shakey’s chain includes 59 fast-casual units with a 60^th scheduled to open in Hawaii at the end of February.

Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].