Global Franchise Group LLC, franchisor of Great American Cookies, Hot Dog on a Stick and other brands, has named Paul Damico as CEO, the company said Monday.
The Atlanta-based company, which also owns the Pretzelmaker, Marble Slab Creamery/MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream & Treatery and Round Table Pizza brands, said Damico assumed the post April 6.
Damico, below, most recently served as CEO of Chicago-based Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill. Damico succeeds Chris Dull, who stepped down as president and CEO in February.
Michael Serruya, Global Franchise Group chairman, said of Damico: “With experience in so many facets of restaurant operations from marketing, operations, culinary and franchising, he brings a unique approach to franchise portfolio management platforms.
“As Global Franchise Group evolves and emerges after COVID-19, his experience with building shared services and guiding organizations through times of transition will be an asset,” Serruva said in a statement.
GFG said interim CEO Jenn Johnston, who had been named chief brand officer and president of franchise operations last summer, would resume that role.
Prior to Naf Naf, Damico served as president of Atlanta-based Focus Brands and was responsible for the oversight of McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s Deli, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Carvel Ice Cream and Cinnabon.
“I was attracted to GFG because of the company’s growth potential and unwavering commitment to our franchisees and brands,” Damico said in a statement. “By strengthening shared services and building the portfolio with complimentary concepts, GFG will reach new heights.”
GFG is owned by two private-equity partners, London-based Lion Capital LLP and Toronto-based Serruya Private Equity Inc.
Global Franchise Group has more than 1,400 franchised and corporate stores across all brands located in 16 countries
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