Leadership

Voodoo Doughnut adds industry vet as CEO

The new leader has previous experience in domestic and international expansion.

Voodoo Doughnut has named a veteran of MOD Pizza and Starbucks as the growing chain’s CEO.

Chris Schultz comes to the operation with more than 30 years of industry experience, most recently serving as senior vice president of operations for MOD Pizza. Before that, he spent 13 years as an operational advisor to Starbucks, helping steer the coffee giant’s domestic and international growth.

“Voodoo has all the ingredients to go from ‘the little company that could’ to the next big thing,” Schultz said in a news release. “We will be retaining all that’s wonderful to make sure the Voodoo that’s done so well isn’t lost as we introduce ourselves to new customers, communities and employees.”

The doughnut chain’s previous CEO, Robin Ludwig, died of brain cancer in 2015.

Portland, Ore.-based Voodoo Doughnut currently operates six units in four states.

In October, the playful concept known for its doughnuts topped with Froot Loops, bacon, Oreos and other indulgences secured a significant investment from San Francisco private-equity firm Fundamental Capital. Details of the investment were not released.

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