Smashburger, owned by Jollibee Group, has tapped Denise Nelsen as CEO, the company's first female CEO.

"We are thrilled to welcome Denise Nelsen as Smashburger's newest CEO. With her extensive experience and proven leadership in the food and beverage industry, she is set to propel the brand into a new era of growth," Jollibee Group President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong said in a company press release. "Her appointment signifies the Jollibee Group's commitment to excellence and diversity. With all her capabilities and energy, we are confident that she can drive success for Smashburger, thereby contributing to the growth of the Jollibee Group as a whole."

Nelsen joined the company as incoming CEO in January 2024, bringing over 30 years of industry expertise. She previously served as SVP of U.S. Operations at Starbucks, most recently leading the brand's U.S. business for nearly five years before holding various operations and support roles within the company for over two decades.

"I'm excited and energized to officially step into the position of chief executive officer at Smashburger," she said in the release. "With an unmatched dedication to guest satisfaction, Smashburger has consistently set the standard across the fast-casual industry, and I'm looking forward to working with the executive team to continue the brand's legacy. As we embark on various new brand ventures in 2024, I'm eager to support our continuous efforts to stay at the forefront of taste innovation in the industry, while collaborating with our international expansion teams to bring the joys of Smashburger to more guests worldwide."

Founded in 2007 in Denver, Colorado, Smashburger has 235 corporate and franchise restaurants operating in 34 states and seven countries.

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