The parent company of Round Table Pizza and several other multi-unit concepts, Global Franchise Group introduced chef Jason Dowd as the company’s vice president of culinary innovation.

Dowd’s background includes serving as head of global food and beverage/director of culinary innovation for InterContinental Hotel Group. He also previously served as vice president of innovation and corporate executive chef for multiconcept operator FOCUS Brands, which operates such restaurant chains as Moe's Southwest Grill. Dowd was director of innovation and corporate executive chef for consumer capital partners, which owns Smashburger and Live Basil Pizza; and corporate research and development managing chef for Darden Restaurants.

In addition to hiring Dowd, Global Franchise Group promoted Annica Conrad to chief marketing officer and tapped Jon Gordon to serve as vice president of creative services. These moves come after an organizational restructuring that positions the business for future acquisitions and growth, per a GFG press release. “We are building a shared service platform that will enable us to best champion our current and future brands. Our leadership team has the industry experience and know-how to get us there,” said Paul Damico, GFG’s CEO.

Conrad, who joined GFG in 2018, led the development of a new identity and experience for Great American Cookies, Marble Slab Creamery and the concept's co-brand locations. Conrad also directed the GFG COVID-19 task force. Before being promoted to CMO, she was executive vice president, brand marketing.

Gordon most recently served as senior vice president, executive creative director at FOCUS Brands, where he led the in-house agency team supporting Moe's Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky's, McAlister's Deli, Carvel, Cinnabon and Jamba chains.