Quiznos, one of the nation’s premier quick-service restaurant chains and the pioneer of the toasted sandwich, today announced the appointment of Stuart K. Mathis as the Company’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 30, 2012. Additionally, Quiznos has named Susan Lintonsmith as its new Chief Marketing Officer.
Mr. Mathis, who has served as a member of the International Franchise Association’s Board of Directors since 2007, joins Quiznos with more than 30 years of experience in franchising, operations and administration. He most recently served as President of The UPS Store network, a position he held for 10 years. In that capacity, he led The UPS Store to double-digit same store sales growth and record-setting sales of new franchises.
“I am a longtime fan of Quiznos, which has the best food in the marketplace,” said Mr. Mathis. “I look forward to working with the franchise owners, the corporate team, the field teams and the board of managers to serve our guests, help franchise owners meet their financial goals, and attract new franchise owners to the brand.”
Prior to The UPS Store, Mr. Mathis was EVP of Operations at Mail Boxes, Etc., the predecessor brand to The UPS Store. Previously, he was EVP of Franchise Operations at Domino’s Pizza where he improved franchise support through the creation of a franchise operations division. Under his leadership, Dominos reversed negative sales trends and achieved 28 consecutive quarters of positive same store sales trends.
“We are fortunate to have a leader of Stuart’s caliber join the Quiznos team,” said Quiznos executive chairman, Harsha V. Agadi. “The depth of his experience in retail, restaurants and franchising uniquely qualifies him to lead this organization and move Quiznos forward. Stuart has worked with brands in times of change, and he has consistently improved their performance.”
Mr. Mathis succeeds Greg MacDonald, who is stepping down as Quiznos’ President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. “We thank Greg for his leadership and dedication over 14 years at Quiznos, and wish him well in his future endeavors,” said Mr. Agadi.
Quiznos has also named Susan Lintonsmith as its new Chief Marketing Officer. Ms. Lintonsmith brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing and sales to Quiznos. She has a track record of developing winning strategic plans, successful new product innovation and building differentiated consumer brands in the food and beverage industry.
“Susan is an accomplished marketer who understands the importance of brand building to growing sales and profitability,” said Mr. Agadi. “She is an experienced executive who brings strategic vision and a relentless drive for continuous business improvement.”
Previously, Ms. Lintonsmith served as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, where she led strategic planning and all aspects of marketing. She has consulted for the Einstein Noah Restaurant group and also held marketing leadership roles at WhiteWave Foods, Western Union, The Coca-Cola Company, and Pizza Hut Inc.
“I am excited by the growth opportunities at Quiznos and the commitment to franchise owner success and to delivering high-quality, great-tasting signature food to our guests,” said Susan Lintonsmith, Chief Marketing Officer, Quiznos. “This is a very exciting time at Quiznos. This is a fantastic brand with great products and I’m impressed by the forward momentum and the dedication to growing the business. I’m honored to be a part of this great brand and team.”
Denver-based Quiznos serves today’s busy consumers who are looking for a tasty, freshly prepared alternative to traditional fast-food restaurants. With locations in 50 states and 25 countries, Quiznos is one of the nation’s premier quick-service restaurant chains and pioneer of the toasted sandwich, Quiznos restaurants offer creative, chef-inspired sandwiches and salads using premium ingredients. Quiznos was founded in 1981 by chefs who discovered that toasting brought out the best in every sandwich ingredient. For more information, please visit www.quiznos.com.
