Freddy’s Names New COO, VP of Finance While Working To Double Footprint

Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers has named a new COO and vice president of finance as it works to double its footprint in the next four years.

Taking the reins as COO is Brian Wise, who previously spent 15 years with a Freddy’s franchise group before joining the corporate team. Over the past year, Wise has led the restaurant innovation team, delivering technology and operational improvements, says the brand.

As COO, he will oversee the training team, along with franchise and corporate operations for the over 440-unit fast-casual brand.

In addition, Jerry Kunz was named vice president of finance. Kunz brings experience in financial planning and analysis, budgeting and forecasting, corporate and operational finance, business intelligence reporting and more, according to Freddy’s. Kunz most recently served as director of finance and treasury for First Watch Restaurants.

“We are thankful that Brian will be continuing his great work with our brand as COO and that Jerry decided to join our team for this next chapter of accelerating development,” says Chris Dull, president and CEO of Freddy’s, in a press release. “With our seasoned operations team having a vast array of knowledge and expertise, we’re on a solid path to the brand’s continued success and growth.”

So far this year, Freddy’s has added 94 units to its development pipeline, with plans to grow in key markets, including California, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas. Last week, the 20-year-old brand announced a multiunit development agreement to bring six Freddy’s restaurants to northeast Illinois.