Bojangles’ COO To Retire, New VP of Operations Named

The chicken and biscuits chain Bojangles is starting its search for a new COO. Today, the brand announced the retirement of Brian Unger, who has served as COO of the chain since 2019. He will continue to serve in his current role until at least March 31.

Unger’s career in the restaurant industry spans more than 40 years. He began with McDonald’s, spending more than 20 years with the brand and rising to senior vice president of operations. He also served as COO for Einstein Noah Restaurants Group and was president and COO at Long John Silver’s. He joined Bojangles not long after the southern food chain was purchased by Durational Capital Management and The Jordan Co.

“During his time at Bojangles, Brian has been instrumental in improving operations and leading through the challenges of the past two years,” says Bojangles’ CEO Jose Armario in a press release. “With a career that spans four decades in the QSR industry, his leadership has significantly contributed to Bojangles’ success. We thank him for his commitment to the company and wish him the very best as he retires.”

In addition, Bojangles promoted John Freeman to vice president of operations and support. In this role, he will lead operations and support for Bojangles’ company-owned restaurants. Freeman joined the brand in September 2021 as senior director of facilities and operations, according to his LinkedIn profile. He has more than 15 years of executive leadership experience with franchise brands, including KFC and Taco Bell.

Founded in 1977 in Charlotte, N.C., Bojangles has approximately 760 restaurants in 14 states.