Cinnabon’s Kat Cole gets a new job

Kat Cole has relinquished her duties as president of Cinnabon to former COO David Guith to assume the presidency of the bakery chain’s parent, Focus Brands.

In her new role, Cole will be oversee the expansion of alternate sales channels for all of Focus’ brands, which include Moe’s Southwest Grill, McAlister’s Deli, Schlotzsky’s,  Auntie Anne’s and Carvel.  Focus is a holding of the private-equity firm Roark Capital, whose larger folio encompasses Arby’s, Carl’s Jr., Hardee’s, Miller’s Ale House, Corner Bakery, Wingstop and  Il Forniao.

Cole’s specific charges include growing Focus’ revenues from product licensing and e-commerce.

She had been president of Cinnabon for four years.

Guith will shoulder responsibilities for the Cinnabon’s core business, a string of 1,100 cinnamon-roll shops worldwide. Before becoming COO of the chain, Guith had worked for The Coca-Cola Co. and Yum! Brands, franchisor of Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut.

Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.

Multimedia

Exclusive Content

Financing

How TGI Fridays' long party came to a close

COVID-19 was the final straw for the bar and grill pioneer, which became at least the third casual-dining chain to file for bankruptcy this year. But its problems started well before the pandemic.

Financing

Why so many brands are closing restaurants in the name of growth

The Bottom Line: Denny’s and Wendy’s announced plans to close underperforming units as part of a “growth strategy.” The restaurant industry has a long history of such strategies. But too much can be a risk.

Leadership

Cracker Barrel airs another plea to keep Sardar Biglari off the family-dining chain's board

Reality Check: A letter mailed to shareholders Monday repeats a detailed inventory of the investor's alleged faults as a business leader.

Trending

More from our partners