Qdoba Hires Seasoned Exec as Chief Development Officer

Jim Sullivan, a former CKE Restaurant Holdings executive, has been named chief development officer at Qdoba, the fast-casual chain announced today, June 7.

He will lead all of Qdoba’s restaurant development activities, including market planning, site selection, real estate negotiations, franchise sales and more to support the company’s “aggressive” growth plan. Sullivan, in a press release, said he will focus on entering new markets as well as strengthening the brand’s presence in existing markets.

He also will serve on Qdoba’s Executive Leadership Team.

“Jim brings a unique perspective and strong leadership approach, backed by a proven track record of successfully accelerating franchise growth for some of the nation’s leading restaurant concepts,” said Keith Guilbault, CEO of Qdoba, in a press release. “His expertise and years of experience in growing brands similar to ours in size and scale will serve us well in connecting with new franchise partners, expanding our nationwide footprint, and reaching new heights as a company.”

Sullivan boasts 25 years of industry experience, most recently with CKE (parent company of Carl’s Jr, Hardee’s, Green Burrito and Red Burrito Concepts), where he was responsible for all domestic development, real estate and construction activities such as design, restaurant maintenance, real estate, market planning, asset management, franchise sales strategies, compliance and more. He also has worked for Friendly’s Ice Cream Corp. and American Hospitality Concepts.