Smashburger CEO resigns from post

smashburger food burger

Smashburger CEO Scott Crane has stepped down after eight-plus years at the helm of the growing fast casual, the chain confirmed Tuesday.

Smashburger said it informed franchisees and employees of Crane’s departure late last week and that its board, which is conducting a search for his replacement, plans to make an announcement within the next 10 days.

Crane, who was named CEO of Smashburger in 2013, had previously served as its president after joining the chain in 2007.

“On behalf of Smashburger’s board of managers and team, I would like to thank Scott for the outstanding leadership he has provided the company during his tenure as CEO,” Smashburger co-founder Rick Schaden said in a statement. “With his vision, efforts and constructive attitude, we formed a strong partnership, helping Smashburger accomplish a number of extraordinary feats over the last several years."

Crane left the chain to pursue other opportunities, Smashburger said.

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

The Tijuana Flats bankruptcy highlights the dangers of menu miscues

The Bottom Line: The fast-casual chain’s problems following new menu debuts in 2021 and 2022 show that adding new items isn’t always the right idea.

Financing

For Papa Johns, the CEO departure came at the wrong time

The Bottom Line: The pizza chain worked to convince franchisees to buy into a massive marketing shift. And then the brand’s CEO left.

Leadership

Restaurants bring the industry's concerns to Congress

Nearly 600 operators made their case to lawmakers as part of the National Restaurant Association’s Public Affairs Conference.

Trending

More from our partners