The Culver’s burger chain will be entrusted to an executive from outside the founding family when Phil Keiser assumes the duties of CEO from Craig Culver on June 15, the chain’s parent company announced.
Keiser is no stranger to Culver’s, which was founded in 1984 by Culver, his wife, Lea, and his parents, George and Ruth. Keiser has been involved with the brand for 19 of its 30 years, currently as president and COO. He will retain his president’s title when he adds “CEO” to his business cards on June 15, Craig Culver’s 65th birthday.
Keiser will be only the second CEO in the chain’s history.
"All companies over time will have different CEOs, but in each company only one individual gets the opportunity to follow the founding CEO,” Keiser said in the announcement of his promotion. “I'm honored to play that role.”
"It's important for every business to have a strong succession plan so the right people are in the right positions to lead into the future," said Craig Culver. "What makes me excited and makes my decision easier is that the reins are being turned over to someone who has been responsible for so much of our success for so many years."
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