Whataburger names Atkinson CEOWhataburger names Atkinson CEO

Paul Frumkin

Whataburger Inc. president and chief operating officer Preston Atkinson will assume the role of chief executive of the 720-unit quick-service chain on Jan. 1, 2012, the company said Thursday.

Current CEO Tom Dobson will continue to serve as chairman of the board of the San Antonio-based burger brand once Atkinson takes his new position.

“For years, Preston has been a trusted partner and friend in my journey as a leader in this company,” Dobson said in a statement. “His guidance has helped Whataburger grow into a strong, stable and successful burger brand.

“I am fully confident in Preston’s leadership and his ability to carry on the Whataburger legacy, leading our talented team of dedicated individuals to ensure that we are positioned for long-term growth and success.”

Atkinson began working with the family-owned Whataburger in 1986 designing and building restaurants. He officially joined the company in 1998, and held such posts as senior vice president of development, chief development officer, and executive vice president and chief operating officer. In February 2007 he was appointed president and chief operating officer.

During Atkinson’s tenure, the company expanded into new markets, grew sales and moved its headquarters from Corpus Christi, Texas, to San Antonio.

“I am so proud and honored to assume this new role at Whataburger,” Atkinson said. “Tom has always been a great mentor and friend, and we share the same leadership principles, believing that teamwork and respect for one another and our customers is paramount to the success of an organization.”

Whataburger generated systemwide sales of $1.2 billion in 2010, according to Nation’s Restaurant News’ Top 100 census of chains and companies in the foodservice industry. The chain, which operates in 10 states, was founded in 1950 by Harmon Dobson.

Contact Paul Frumkin at [email protected].