Newk’s Eatery announced Joe Pate as Chief Operations Officer. This is a new position at Newk’s that was created to expand the company’s operations team as part of a plan for continued growth. Pate comes to Newk’s with 35 years of experience in the restaurant industry, serving more than 20 years with la Madeline, most recently as vice president of operations, where he oversaw la Madeline’s largest franchise group.

At la Madeleine, Pate oversaw operations, catering and support functions. Pate led and grew with the quick-casual concept from 12 to 85+ units, where he helped transition the company from a commissary-based concept to a more profitable unit production concept in 2001, as well as moving the company from a corporate based concept to a franchise driven growth company in 2017. As Vice president of the largest franchise of la Madeleine Pate and his team grew the franchise from 25 to over 40 units in just three years with company leading results.

“I am confident that Joe will be instrumental to the growth and continued success of Newk’s’ restaurant operations with his exceptional track record and deep-rooted knowledge in restaurant leadership,” says Chris Newcomb, CEO of Newk’s Eatery. “Joe has proven to excel in building and growing cross-functional teams with both corporate and franchise operations, combining strategic, results-driven programs, while also cultivating his passion for great food.”

Pate began his food service career at a hometown restaurant in Alvin, Texas and later joined the U.S. Coast Guard where he continued to hone his skills in foodservice at the U.S.C.G. Culinary Specialist Academy. After six years of military service, he returned to the private sector where he ran a privately-owned restaurant and catering company as well as a Houston based Cici’s Pizza as franchise district manager; collecting a breadth of experience working with corporate and franchise multi-unit companies, and sole proprietorships.

At Newk’s, Pate will oversee both company and franchise operations, as well as catering and operations services. Major initiatives he will lead point on in his new role include performance of new restaurants, food and labor improvement, growth in delivery and catering and restaurant and menu innovation.

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to join the operations team and bring industry-leading innovation and systems to a brand I truly believe in,” says Pate. “My focus is to use my experience and passion for the food and restaurant industry to propel the growth of our people and our restaurants, setting the bar high in growth and operational excellence.”