Staffing

Krystal parent SPB Hospitality names Robert J. Fargo as SVP of development

Photo: SPB Hospitality

August 15, 2025

SPB Hospitality, a portfolio company of Fortress Investment Group, has appointed Robert "Bob" J. Fargo as SVP of development. SPB Hospitality is the parent company to Krystal, among other brands, according to a press release.

A veteran of the restaurant, retail and entertainment industries with nearly three decades of experience, Fargo will lead all aspects of real estate, design and construction management for SPB Hospitality's diverse portfolio, including J. Alexander's, Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill, Amada, Village Whiskey, Krystal and Logan's Roadhouse. He will be responsible for managing SPB's national development pipeline, steering multimillion-dollar projects from lease execution to grand opening, and ensuring budgets and schedules are maintained with precision.

"Bob's track record in accelerating development timelines, optimizing budgets and delivering high-quality projects is unmatched," Josh Kern, CEO of SPB Hospitality, said in the press release. "He has been a steady, strategic force behind our growth, and his addition to the senior leadership team ensures development remains a core part of our forward-looking agenda. Bob's expertise will be instrumental as we expand our footprint, strengthen our portfolio and continue building distinctive dining experiences that resonate with guests nationwide."

Fargo first joined SPB Hospitality in 2023 at VP of construction and design. He has held previous roles at Ideal Image, Seven Restaurants and PDQ.

"I'm honored to step into this role at such a pivotal time for SPB Hospitality," Fargo said in the press release. "We have an extraordinary lineup of brands with unique growth opportunities, and I look forward to building spaces that reflect their character, drive operational success and deliver exceptional experiences for our guests."

SPB Hospitality operates a diverse portfolio of quick-service and full-service dining restaurants across 35 states.