Subway appoints Jonathan Fitzpatrick as chief executive officer
New CEO to Steer Subway's Turnaround
Jonathan Fitzpatrick, a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in franchising and quick-service restaurants, is set to take the helm at Subway on July 28, 2025. His appointment comes as the sandwich chain, once the second-largest brand in the U.S., has been grappling with a decade-long decline.
Fitzpatrick's impressive resume includes stints at Burger King, where he held roles in operations, franchising, and served as the chief brand and operations officer. He led the chain's largest menu overhaul, simplified operations, and modernized the brand's image.
His appointment by Roark Capital, Subway's new owner, is a strategic move to drive the chain's turnaround. Roark Capital, which also owns Driven Brands, where Fitzpatrick was previously an executive, believes his proven track record of growth and operational improvements will be instrumental in Subway's revival.
Fitzpatrick expressed his commitment to Subway's foundation of fresh, better-for-you options and his intent to grow sales and franchisee profitability worldwide.
Subway's domestic performance over the past decade has been lacklustre, with the chain closing nearly 8,000 locations, more than any other U.S. restaurant chain. However, the company's international operations, numbering another 16,000 locations, have shown signs of growth.
Fitzpatrick spent 13 years with Driven Brands before his departure earlier this year. Under his leadership, the company he led had 17 straight quarters of same-store sales growth. While Driven Brands went public in 2021, it has since seen a 36% decrease since its IPO.
Subway's new CEO will face challenges, but with his extensive experience and Roark Capital's backing, there is hope for a brighter future for the iconic sandwich chain.
[1] Burger King Press Release: Fitzpatrick Appointed Chief Brand and Operations Officer [2] Driven Brands Press Release: Fitzpatrick Departs as CEO [3] Subway Press Release: Fitzpatrick Named CEO [4] Roark Capital Press Release: Subway Acquisition
- Jonathan Fitzpatrick's extensive background in the quick-service restaurant industry, specifically franchising, positions him well to make significant improvements in the finance and operations of Subway, aiming to revive the struggling sandwich chain in the food-and-drink business.
- As the new CEO of Subway, Fitzpatrick plans to leverage his experience gained from his previous role as a CEO in the franchising industry, Driven Brands, to further enhance the lifestyle aspect of Subway's brand, focusing on growing sales and franchisee profitability on a global scale.
- With the recent acquisition of Subway by Roark Capital, known for its investment in various businesses within the food-and-drink, lifestyle, and finance industries, Fitzpatrick's appointment as CEO signifies a strategic push for franchising and growth within the Subway industry.
