Fuddruckers names franchisee as COOFuddruckers names franchisee as COO

AUSTIN Texas Fuddruckers Inc., the 250-unit gourmet burger chain, has named Ralph Flannery as chief operating officer.

Flannery is a 23-year franchisee of the concept, with stores in Minnesota, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

"He is a proven leader of our brand and brings 23 years of experience with Fuddruckers to our leadership team," said Matt Pannek, president and chief executive of Fuddruckers, based here. "Ralph Flannery's passion for the Fuddruckers brand, deep operational and guest insights as well as his proven leadership qualities made this a clear win for our organization."

Flannery will oversee Fuddruckers corporate and franchise operations, its supply chain, culinary, and facilities teams.

Fuddruckers has units in 35 states and abroad.