Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, the parent entity of Checkers & Rally's drive-through restaurant brands, has appointed Chris Tebben as its new president and CEO.

From 4 September 2024, Tebben will succeed Frances Allen, who announced in April that she was stepping down as president and CEO to focus on her board responsibilities.

Checkers & Rally's independent board member David Barr said: “After a thorough search process, we are very pleased to welcome Chris to the Checkers & Rally's organisation.

“His comprehensive experience in nearly every aspect of restaurant leadership, coupled with his proven track record of delivering sales, traffic, and unit growth, make him a perfect fit to take these brands to the next level.”

Tebben has extensive experience in the food industry, and served as president of Mars Retail Group since 2022, where he managed the M&M's brand's retail strategy and flagship stores globally.

He was previously associated with Starbucks, where he held several leadership positions over eight years.

He spearheaded the expansion of Starbucks Reserve, including the launch of the largest Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Chicago.

Tebben also held the position of vice-president of retail strategy and vice-president of licensed stores at Starbucks, where he was responsible for marketing, digital transformation and product management across the US and Latin America.

His tenure at Starbucks also saw him manage the company's Frappuccino and Tea divisions as vice-president.

Tebben was also associated with PF Chang's, where he served as chief marketing officer (CMO) of Pei Wei Asian Diner, and with Yum! Brands as CMO of Pizza Hut in the UK and Ireland.

Tebben said: “I am fortunate to be inheriting the strong foundation that Frances and the team have put in place, and I am honoured that the board has entrusted me to steward the Checkers & Rally's brands into their next chapter of profitable growth.

"I couldn't be more excited to lead these two iconic brands that have endured for over 40 years by serving up craveable burgers and the best fries in the business, while delivering a tremendous value proposition for both customers and franchisees.

“As I look to the future, I believe Checkers & Rally's is primed to exceed consumers' rising expectations when it comes to hyper-convenience, and I look forward to working with the team to continue to innovate in every area of our business.”

In July 2024 Checkers & Rally’s unveiled a new value menu for the 2024 back-to-school season.