Michael Goldberg (left), former chief operating officer of Fresh Brothers Pizza, has been named CEO of San Francisco-based Ike’s Love & Sandwiches, which is poised to add about 20 restaurants next year.
Goldberg started as CEO this month at the chain, known for its messy and complex custom sandwiches. Each sandwich is made with “Dirty Secret Sauce," which is baked in the bread and later used as a final spread.
Ike Shehadeh, founder and president of the chain, said Goldberg and Renae Scott, tapped in November 2018 as the company’s chief marketing officer, will work together to grow locations through a mix of franchise and company stores.
Scott is a segment veteran having spent seven years as the CMO of Togo’s Sandwiches, a 250-unit West Coast chain known for its made-to-order sandwiches served on thick bread.
“As we look to fuel our positive sales and rapid growth, we are now well positioned with experienced executives to drive the business forward,” Shehadeh said in a statement.
Goldberg comes to Ike’s after spending about eight years at Fresh Brothers; he was also briefly the CEO of fast-casual emerging brand, Yalla Mediterranean.
“I’m thankful and thrilled to have an industry veteran and entrepreneurial leader join the family here at Ike’s,” Shehadeh said. “Michael will continue to make the brand and business a household name for sandwich lovers near and far.”
Prior to Togo’s, Scott worked as vice president of media and field marketing at Carl’s Jr.
By the end of the year, Ike’s is expected to have about 80 restaurants open. The brand said it is on track to reach 100 locations by the end of 2020.
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