As Dallas-based TGI Fridays continues to transform its brand, the company announced it has hired two more executives.
Ray Risley becomes U.S. president and chief operating officer, overseeing operations and performance standards of all stores. Nik Rupp is the new chief financial officer and president of international markets. He is responsible for the company’s financial strategy with an emphasis on accounting, finance, and capital structure, focusing on growth and managing relationships with international franchisees.
“We have a significant opportunity to lead this much-loved, heritage brand through a revitalized new chapter, and by bringing on Ray and Nik to our leadership team, we are confident in what we can accomplish in the coming year,” CEO Weldon Spangler said in a news release.
“Not only do Ray and Nik have tremendous experience in the restaurant industry that will drive growth for our brand and our franchisees, but their enthusiasm and passion for TGI Fridays will also be a cornerstone to our vision for the company.”
Risley was CEO of Via 313 Pizzeria, where he doubled the company’s number of stores. Before that, he was president and COO of Front Burner Society, helping grow the Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar concept. Risley spent almost 20 years with Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group.
Most recently, Rupp was COO of Papa Murphy’s International before serving as the company’s CFO. Previously, he was in leadership positions for global consumer brands, including Nike, Converse, and Specialized.
A little more than a month ago, TGI Fridays named Spangler CEO, as reported by The Dallas Express. He succeeded Brandon Coleman, who reportedly resigned for personal reasons two months earlier.
Owned by TriArtisan Advisors Capital of New York, TGI Fridays operates almost 700 restaurants around the world, including one on Belt Line Road in Dallas.
