Staffing

Bojangles names 2 C-suite growth leaders

Byron Chandler (left) and Jose Costa (right) have been named to two C-level posts at Bojangles. (Photos provided)

May 25, 2021

Bojangles has named a former McDonald's executive as chief development officer, while promoting its current franchise development lead to chief growth officer, a news release said.

As chief development officer for the Charlotte, North Carolina-based QSR, Byron Chandler will be responsible for leading Bojangles' real estate, construction and design teams, while implementing the company's strategic plans to build its real estate portfolio for future growth.

"With recent strategic growth announcements, it's clear that demand for the Bojangles brand is growing," Bojangles CEO Jose Armario said in the release. "Byron's proven track record of leadership in restaurant development will further fuel our pipeline and strengthen our presence in new and existing markets."

Chandler was most recently head of the U.S. new site acquisition team at McDonald's, where he served for nearly 20 years.

"Joining the Bojangles team is a natural fit for me," Chandler said in the release. "They have great leadership, great employees, great food, a growing iconic brand with a culture of hospitality and authenticity. What's not to get excited about? I am truly humbled to be part of this brand and look forward to working with Jose and the team to build on its success."

Additionally, Bojangles promoted Jose Costa — who has led franchise development for the chain for two years — to chief growth officer. In the role he will focus on national franchising and international growth. Costa previously helped the chain sign recent deals with Love's Travel Stops, franchisee Jeff Rigsy and Chaac Foods.

"There is nothing more important in our goal of becoming a Southern powerhouse than securing experienced, high-quality franchisees to grow our brand," Armario said in the release. "Jose has done a great job in this area, and we look forward to continuing this momentum of strategic growth as he works closely with Byron."

Bojangles currently has approximately 760 systemwide restaurants in 14 states.