Denny’s appointed company veteran Christopher Bode to serve as its president and chief executive officer.
Christopher BodeBode will lead “Project Grand Slam,” which the company refers to as its “comprehensive 24-month strategic roadmap to modernize the business trajectory through culinary innovation, digital transformation and a renewed commitment to operational excellence.”
Brand Snapshot: Denny’s
- Company type: Chain restaurant
- Segment served: Full-service, family dining
- Headquarters: Spartanburg, S.C.
- Number of locations: 1,459 restaurants as of September 2025
“As we’ve transitioned from a public to a private company, we’ve approached our path forward with real examination, real adjustments and a clearer focus on the things that actually move performance in our restaurants,” Bode said in a release. “We are operating in a difficult economic environment, but private ownership gives us more freedom to look at the business honestly, move faster where change is needed and make adjustments quickly. I am confident that we have the right plan in place to emerge as real winners.”
Project Grand Slam will focus on several key pillars that Denny’s feels will help “evolve the guest experience and maximize brand reach.” These pillars include culinary and flavor innovation, enhanced daypart beverage program, catering and bulk solutions, America’s Diner 2.0 remodels, retail brand expansion and digital transformation.
“With Project Grand Slam, we aren't just changing the menu, we are changing our trajectory. We are going to innovate in the kitchen, lean into the massive opportunity in catering and ensure our franchise partners have the support they need to deliver four-wall excellence every single day,” said Bode. “The future of Denny's is about being where our guests are – whether that’s in our dining rooms, through our mobile app or on their grocery shelves."
Anil Yadav, Denny’s chief transformation officer, previously served as the chain’s interim CEO.
