Global quick service restaurant chain Church’s Chicken has appointed Joseph Christina as its CEO. Christina has served as executive vice president of U.S. Operations at Church’s Chicken since 2013, overseeing operations at more than 1,150 franchise and company-owned restaurants in 29 states.
Christina succeeds Jim Hyatt, who has been CEO of Church’s Chicken since 2011. Hyatt will remain a member of Church’s board of directors.
Christina’s leadership experience with Church’s Chicken
Christina, who brings 32 years of experience in restaurant operations, has driven key improvements in the company over the last three years, including a simplified operational and data-driven approach. In addition, he has overseen initiatives that reduced overhead costs, enhanced franchise relations and improved revenue performance.
“I’m honored to take on the new role of CEO at Church’s, and I look forward to building on the progress we’ve achieved under Jim’s leadership,” said Christina. “I am committed to empowering our team members and providing the strategic direction to ensure we continue to deliver an outstanding experience to Church’s and Texas Chicken guests around the world.”
Earlier leadership with Burger King
Prior to joining Church’s, Christina was senior vice president at Burger King where he was responsible for a division with $2 billion in sales. During that time, he reversed a four-year division sales slump with unique local marketing plans, while cutting $2 million in costs from the company’s 2,000 restaurants in 19 states. Previous positions included vice president of Global Operations and Training, and Division Vice President, Franchise Operations, where he led operations for the company’s Southeast Division comprised of 350 franchisees and 1,800 restaurants.
“Joe is an exceptional restaurant operations executive with a proven track record who is known for his team-building and results-driven approach,” said Tully Friedman, chairman of the Church’s Chicken board of directors. “He has had a tremendous impact since joining the company, and we are confident that, as CEO, Joe will provide the leadership, insight and energy needed for Church’s next phase of success.”
