Dave’s Hot Chicken Hires Franchise Development VP

Dave’s Hot Chicken has hired Joshua Liggins as vice president of franchise development. Most recently, Liggins served as director of franchising for Inspire Brands, where he oversaw franchise development for Dunkin’, Baskin-Robbins and Sonic.

Liggins will focus on supporting existing franchisees as they continue to meet their development milestones, while also helping to expand Dave’s footprint through a more strategic, data-driven growth approach, the company states in the release. He’ll work on identifying high-potential markets, evaluating trade areas and mapping future development opportunities. Dave’s has a major focus on international development, and in 2025, signed a deal with United Kingdom-based Azzurri Group to develop 180 restaurants across 10 European countries.

“With his deep franchising experience and disciplined approach to development, Joshua will play a critical role as we expand across traditional, non-traditional, and international channels,” says Jim Bitticks, who was recently named CEO of Dave’s.

Liggins adds, “We’re looking forward to continuing to introduce guests to Dave’s in new markets, formats, and regions around the world.”

To learn more about Dave’s, be sure to catch Tiffany Vassos, the brand’s senior vice president, design and construction, during a panel discussion on supply chain considerations at FER’s upcoming Multiunit Foodservice Equipment Symposium, taking place in February in Florida.