Leadership

Over the past 15 months, at least a dozen restaurant chains and major franchisees have named women to be their chief executive. Here's a look at this new group of CEOs.

Neary spent 15 years with Auntie Anne’s and most recently served as brand president at quick-service franchisee KBP Brands. She’s charged with ushering in a “new era of growth” at the Mexican fast-food chain.

Denise Nelsen spent more than two decades at Starbucks, most recently leading U.S. operations. Now she's plotting new business ventures and international growth at the fast-casual burger brand.