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.
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