News

Arby’s hires former Popeyes CDO

The new role highlights growth and brand opportunities.

August 24, 2015

Arby’s Restaurant Group Inc today announced in a press release that it has hired Greg Vojnovic as chief development officer, a newly created position reporting to CEO Paul Brown.

The appointment comes in conjunction with a brand-revitalization effort that introduced the new "Meatcraft" marketing campaign, according to the release. Arby’s recently announced its 19th consecutive quarter of same-store sales growth. Arby's said the chain also is developing and remodeling within its company and franchise-owned restaurants at an accelerated pace.

"Arby’s is in growth mode and I can’t think of a better candidate to take the helm of our Development than Greg,” said Paul Brown. "As franchising demand accelerates, I’m looking forward to working with Greg to build and remodel Arby’s restaurants among both new and existing franchisees."

Vojnovic joins Arby’s from Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, where he served as chief development officer for eight years and opened more than 100 new company and franchise restaurants per year. He returns to Arby’s after a 20-year hiatus as he worked for the brand in the 1990s. He will join Arby’s team Sept. 8.

"I’m excited about the new opportunity at Arby’s," Vojnovic said. "There is so much energy and momentum at Arby’s right now and I’m looking forward to being part of the executive team that guides the brand to further growth."

Vojnovic will be responsible for attracting new franchisees, as well as spearheading the construction and remodeling process among current franchise and company-owned restaurants, the release stated. 

Arby’s expects to open more than 60 new restaurants this year and remodel 160 others. The release stated that, on average, Arby’s remodeled restaurants are experiencing sustained sales increases of approximately 15 percent, with some experiencing increases of 20 percent or more.