Quiznos announced the resignation of Doug Pendergast as the company's president and chief executive officer. Pendergast decided to depart the company to spend more time with his family in Atlanta. Katie Scherping, current CFO, will serve as interim president and CEO.
"We believe Quiznos is a stronger company as a result of Doug's work," says Quiznos chairman Doug Benham. "Under his leadership, we've accomplished several major brand initiatives to help advance our business. We thank Doug for his dedication to the Quiznos brand and have full confidence in Katie and the management team to continue the brand on a successful path forward."
With more than 30 years of finance, accounting and managerial experience, Scherping joined the Quiznos team in December 2013 as CFO. She spearheaded the brand's financial restructuring in 2014 and helped overhaul Quiznos food cost and supply-chain model in order to improve restaurant-level economics. Most recently, Scherping led the rollout of Quiznos new national point-of-sale system, which is expected to help bolster sales and lessen restaurant costs through new reporting and management tools. Scherping and Pendergast have worked closely together since Pendergast joined Quiznos in January 2015.
Throughout his time at Quiznos, Pendergast led the organization to several accomplishments including significant gains in customer satisfaction, enhanced support for franchise operations and occupancy costs, and a renewed focus on value pricing. These efforts have helped cut store closures and set the stage for a return to growth.
"This was a difficult decision, as I was torn by the desire to see the results of the changes we've made during my tenure with Quiznos," Pendergast says. "Ultimately, I need to put my family first. I sincerely thank the entire Quiznos system for all that we have accomplished as a team."
During this transition, Quiznos goals remain the same: serving guests, supporting franchisees, strengthening the current brand, and cultivating growth. As Quiznos celebrates its 35th anniversary this summer, the sub company is optimistic about the future and looks forward to continuing to serve up innovative, hot, flavorful menu items to guests.
