Zaxby’s announces an “indescribably good” promotion of Stephanie P. Gamble (née Struble) to vice president of brand development for Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. (ZFI). Gamble has played an integral role in the development of many of Zaxby’s award-winning signature menu items that have added to the brand’s success. In her newly appointed position, Gamble will oversee the strategies and developments of the menu, systems, and applications of the Zaxby’s brand.

Food News Media, publisher of QSR magazine and the newly introduced FSR magazine, which covers the full-service restaurant sector, will roll out its “Year of Women in Foodservice” initiative across both brands in 2013. Ellen Koteff, special projects editor of Food News Media, will serve as ambassador for this program.

The new platform will feature women in all aspects of foodservice: executive ranks, middle management, owner/operators, franchisees, and front and back of the house, as well as from the supplier community.

Blaze Pizza, a pioneer in the fast-casual artisan pizza category, announces the appointment of Carolyne Canady as vice president of franchise sales. In this role, Canady is responsible for franchise recruitment and developing and implementing expansion plans, including bringing Blaze Pizza franchises to major markets such as Los Angeles, Boston, Miami, and San Francisco.