LAKE FOREST Calif. Johnny Rockets, the 1940s theme chain of some 205 full-service diners in 28 states and nine countries, is expected today to identify as its new chief executive Buffalo Wild Wings veteran Lee Sanders, apparently replacing Mike Shumsky, who had been Johnny Rockets' CEO since 1999.
According to Friday's Orange County Register, the Lake Forest-based chain is releasing a statement today about its debut in the Six Flags theme parks that will identify Sanders as CEO, but without mention of Shumsky. The company could not be reached for comment.
In February, Johnny Rockets announced that it was being acquired by Tysons Corner, Va.-based private equity firm RedZone Capital. Sanders joined Minneapolis-based Buffalo Wild Wings in 2001 and most recently was senior vice president of development and franchising. Before that he was national director of franchising for the former owner of the Dunkin' Donuts, Baskin-Robbins and Togo's Eateries brands, Allied Domecq Quick Service Restaurants.