US-based fast-casual restaurant chain Noodles & Company has appointed Joe Christina as its new president and chief operating officer (COO).
Christina will be responsible for operations and human resources, aiming to enhance the experience of both guests and team members.
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Noodles & Company CEO Drew Madsen stated: “Joe is a highly accomplished leader with deep operational expertise and a proven track record of driving growth and innovation in the restaurant industry.
“His experience as both a CEO and operations leader makes him uniquely positioned to further elevate our foundation of operations excellence, strengthen our team culture and unlock the significant growth opportunities ahead. Joe will also help ensure the successful execution of our comprehensive new menu introduction in the first half of this year [2025].”
Christina’s background in quick-service and fast-casual restaurant leadership includes a breadth of expertise across operations, financial management, market development, marketing, human resources and franchise leadership.
His career commenced at Burger King, where he held a series of pivotal roles over twenty-nine years as a restaurant manager, franchise owner, vice-president of global operations and training and finally senior vice-president of franchise operations for the West division.
In 2013, he moved to Church’s Chicken as executive vice-president of US operations and was later promoted to CEO, president and board member.
During his six-year tenure there, he led the brand to notable year-on-year growth. Most recently, he held the position of CEO at Tijuana Flats where he revitalised the brand and drove its expansion.
Christina succeeds Brad West who announced his retirement in 2024 after an eight-year tenure as COO.
West will continue with Noodles & Company as chief of staff until June 2025 to ensure a smooth transition.
Joe Christina said: “I’m thrilled to join Noodles & Company at such an exciting time for the brand.
“Noodles is a standout concept with a strong foundation, a highly differentiated menu and significant growth potential. Their people-first culture deeply resonates with me. By focusing on operations excellence, menu innovation and expanding catering, we will unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable, long-term success.”
