In a move to spur growth, including possibly via acquisition, restaurant industry veteran Paul Damico was named CEO of Global Franchise Group.
Paul DamicoGlobal Franchise Group, a multiconcept operator that owns such concepts as Great American Cookies, Hot Dog on a Stick, Pretzelmaker, Marble Slab Creamery/MaggieMoo's Ice Cream & Treatery and Round Table Pizza. Damico will lead GFG's growth, acquisitions and shared services.
“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. We will be poised to acquire additional brands,” said Michael Serruya, chairman of the GFG Board of Directors.
Damico succeeds Chris Dull, GFG’s longtime president and CEO who exited the organization in February. Jenn Johnson had served as interim CEO and will return to her role of chief brand officer and president of franchise operations.
With more than 35 years in food and hospitality, Damico most recently served as CEO of Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill. Prior to Naf Naf, he was president of Focus Brands, responsible for the oversight of McAlister's Deli, Moe's Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky's Deli, Auntie Anne's Pretzels, Carvel Ice Cream and Cinnabon.
