Checkers Drive-In Restaurants announced the addition of several new members to the business development team. Basil Kazepis joined the company as director of real estate and will be directly responsible for the site selection and development of new Checkers restaurants across the U.S. Greg Michael signed on as director of franchising and new business development and will manage increasing the brand’s presence in the Southeast region. Additionally, Checkers promoted Christine Elam to the role of senior manager of franchise administration and Shakon Turner to senior manager of recruitment.

“We have a very strong franchise development team in place to aid Checkers’ nationwide expansion,” says Lynette McKee, chief development officer of Checkers Drive-In Restaurants Inc. “Their knowledge of the industry, combined with their vast experience working with franchisees, make them each perfect candidates to implement our brand’s aggressive growth strategy.”

Kazepis comes to Checkers with more than 20 years of development experience. He was previously a development manager for Dunkin’ Brands Inc. and was responsible for opening new restaurants in the New York metro market. Michael brings more than three decades of franchise experience to Checkers. Previously, he served Hooters of America LLC for nearly 15 years as vice president of franchising and development. Michael’s tenure in franchising also includes time at Dunkin’ Donuts as a franchising manager for the state of Florida.

Elam has been with Checkers for more than eight years, and in her new management position she will handle the administration for all aspects of franchise development. As senior manager of recruitment, Turner will be responsible for the recruitment of existing and new franchisees. Turner was previously a member of the marketing department where she worked closely with franchisees to implement the company’s annual marketing and media strategy.