Staffing

White Castle CEO steps into board chair post

As it enters its centennial year, chairmanship of White Castle's board transitions from former CEO Bill Ingram (right) to current CEO Lisa Ingram. (photos provided)

January 11, 2021

White Castle is entering its centennial year by transitioning its board chair from former White Castle President and CEO Bill Ingram to his daughter, the company's current president and CEO, Lisa Ingram, according to a news release.

"I know, as a fourth-generation, we are all thankful for Bill's many years of leadership," Lisa Ingram said in the release. "I'm honored to take on this new responsibility as chair of the board.

"I'm thankful for the many lessons my Dad taught me about taking the long view, and not being afraid to try new ideas. While he won't be in his normal seat at our board meetings, I have a hunch I'll still be giving him a call now and then for good advice and insight!"

Bill Ingram has served as the company's board chair since 1992 and represented the third generation of the family-owned QSR. He is the grandson of the chain's founder, Billy Ingram, as well as son of the company's second CEO E.W. Ingram Jr.

Bill Ingram helped start the company's successful consumer packaged goods business in 1986, which supplies grocery stores all over the United States.

"It has been an honor to serve as chair of the board for White Castle, and exciting to see all the investments the fourth-generation leadership of the company is making to create an even brighter future for all the team members of White Castle, said Bill Ingram.

"Lisa is more than ready to add the additional responsibility of 'board chair' to her duties, and I know she'll continue to do a great job. While this means I'm retired now from 'official' White Castle duties, you can bet Marci (his wife) and I will be keeping our freezer full of retail product, and you'll be seeing us at the drive-thru too. Thanks to all of the people of White Castle. I've enjoyed the chance to be part of something very special and appreciate the friendships we share."

The board voted unanimously to install Lisa Ingram as chair. She has served as president and CEO of White Castle since 2015. She is one of 10 fourth-generation family members serving in leadership roles for the business.

White Castle, based in Columbus, Ohio, has more than 360 stores nationally. It is one of the country's oldest QSRs and will celebrate its 100th birthday this year.