Jeff Sturgis has been named McAlister's Deli new chief development officer.
Sturgis will be in charge of the company's developmental functions including franchise sales, real estate, store design, and construction a press release on Restaurant News reported.
"We are excited to welcome Jeff to the McAlister's team," Frank Paci McAlister's Deli president and chief executive officer said in a statement. "Jeff brings a wealth of experience in franchise sales and development and will lead our efforts to accelerate the growth of the McAlister's brand."
Sturgis brings over 17 years of experience in the franchise industry. During this time he founded and operated a franchise strategy and consulting practice consisting of more than 25 franchisees. It was here he developed and executed strategies to help the franchises grow.
Before this, Sturgis had positions in senior management and development with Fantastic Sams Hair Salons and FOCUS Brands.
"I am excited to be part of the McAlister's team," Sturgis said in a statement. "McAlister's is poised for tremendous growth with strong unit economics, three years of same-store sales increases, a tremendous franchise support team and an experienced and talented senior management team."
McAlister's recent hire is part of their initiatives to toughen its brand such as upgrading items on its menu, improving its speed when serving customers. The franchise chain serves sandwiches, spud potatoes, soups, salads, desserts and its infamous sweet tea. Dine in and take out service, along with catering is also available. Customers can choose from a variety of sandwich trays, box lunches, desserts, and a hot spud potato bar.
McAlister's has over 320 restaurants in 23 states, and has corporate headquarters in Ridgeland Miss., and Alpharetta, Ga.
The chief development officer position is a new one for McAlister's as it focuses on growth the press release reported.
