Focus Brands makes some executive changes

Focus Brands added three new executives this week. / Photos courtesy of Focus Brands.

Focus Brands, the owner of several quick-service brands, on Thursday named a trio of new executives to lead its Auntie Anne’s brand as well as design and construction and real estate.

Julie Younglove-Webb was named chief brand officer for Auntie Anne’s, the pretzel chain. She will lead the company’s overall strategy and execution. She comes to the company from Domino’s Pizza, where she was SVP of corporate operations in the U.S. Before that, she worked for 11 years at Potbelly, including time as chief restaurant operations officer.

Jim Cannon was named SVP of design and construction. He will oversee the development of the respective brands’ prototypes. He has a 40-year career in the construction industry and has worked in design and development for several quick-service brands including Arby’s, Popeyes and Jack in the Box.

Chris Newman was named SVP of real estate. He will oversee all aspects of Focus Brands’ real estate strategy. He comes to the company from Next Chapter Properties LLC, where he worked on multifamily developments. He also spent 12 years as director of real estate for Jimmy John’s.

Focus Brands, based in Atlanta, operates several chains in addition to Auntie Anne’s: Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill and Schlotzsky’s.

Jim Cannon / Photo courtesy of Focus Brands

Chris Newman / Photo courtesy of Focus Brands

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