Subway has announced that Jonathan Fitzpatrick, a former Burger King executive, will join the company as Chief Executive Officer, effective July 28, 2025.
The announcement comes after a months-long search for the new CEO following John Chidsey’s retirement at the end of 2024, after five years with the company. During Chidsey’s tenure, the company was sold for $9.6 billion to private equity firm Roark Capital in 2023.
Roark, the owner of Subway, supports two holding companies that own multiple restaurant brands: Inspire Brands, which owns Arby’s, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s, Sonic, and Buffalo Wild Wings; and GoTo Foods, which owns Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, and Jamba.
Subway’s new CEO, Fitzpatrick, previously served as president and CEO of Driven Brands, also owned by Roark. He held several senior leadership roles at Burger King, including Executive Vice President and Chief Brand and Operations Officer. During his time at Burger King, he led the company’s biggest menu update ever, streamlined restaurant procedures, and revitalized the brand’s global image.
Fitzpatrick told investors, “I’m honored to lead this iconic brand that has been serving guests around the world for 60 years. Subway has a solid foundation built on decades of providing freshly made, better-for-you options with value and convenience. I’m excited by the opportunity to shape the future of the company, working alongside our valued franchisees and employees to help drive increased sales and franchisee profitability and grow our brand around the world.”
According to Subway, Fitzpatrick will collaborate closely with Interim CEO Carrie Walsh to ensure a smooth transition.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
