When the Check-In Matters More Than the Check
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Explore the transformative role of Donna Spangler-Josephson as Chief Brand Officer at Schlotzsky’s and the strategies shaping the brand’s future growth and success.
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com
Donna Spangler-Josephson's transition from Chief Marketing Officer at Shipley’s Do-nuts to Chief Brand Officer at Schlotzsky’s marks a pivotal moment in the brand's evolution. With over two decades of rich experience in the restaurant industry, including prominent roles at Fazoli’s, Corner Bakery Cafe, and McAlister’s Deli, Spangler-Josephson brings a wealth of strategic insights and expertise to her new position.
At the core of Spangler-Josephson's role is a dual focus on marketing and operations strategy at Schlotzsky’s. By spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing financial growth and fostering franchise success, she is actively shaping the brand's trajectory towards sustained profitability and operational excellence.
Spangler-Josephson’s appointment comes amidst a strategic shift at Schlotzsky’s, aimed at accelerating sales growth and expanding development opportunities. Her visionary leadership is poised to drive innovation and steer the brand towards new heights of success in the competitive restaurant landscape.
In a period of industry flux and evolving consumer preferences, Schlotzsky’s under Spangler-Josephson’s guidance is adapting to changing market dynamics. The brand's innovative approach, exemplified by the introduction of prototypes for smaller restaurants with double drive-thrus, showcases a commitment to agility and responsiveness in the face of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com
As a part of Roark Capital, Schlotzsky’s under the stewardship of Spangler-Josephson stands to benefit from a rich ecosystem of expertise and resources. The recent milestone of McAlister’s crossing the $1 billion mark in sales underscores the growth potential within the Roark Capital family, setting the stage for Schlotzsky’s to leverage this momentum for sustained success.
With the strategic appointment of Bobby Morena as the new franchising SVP and the rebranding initiative from Focus Brands to GoTo, the future of Schlotzsky’s is positioned for transformative growth. These strategic moves signify a clear commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, expanding franchise reach, and strengthening the brand's market positioning.