Dan Rowe, CEO and founder of Fransmart, the global franchise development company behind the explosive growth of brands like Five Guys Burgers and Fries, QDOBA Mexican Grill and The Halal Guys, and co-managing partner of The Kitchen Fund, is joining the National Restaurant Association’s Board of Directors.

For more than 10 years, Rowe has identified and grown brands like Five Guys Burgers and Fries, QDOBA Mexican Grill and The Halal Guys from one to five-unit businesses to the powerhouse chains they are today. Under the direction of Rowe, Fransmart’s current and past franchise development portfolio brands have opened more than 5,000 restaurants across 45 states in the U.S. and in more than 35 countries internationally.

“The restaurant industry is the largest employer in America behind health care, and the National Restaurant Association is the largest association supporting our industry,” says Rowe. “I am beyond flattered and humbled that I have been asked to join the board and I look forward to serving everyone in our industry.”

Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises one million restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of more than 15 million employees. The association represents the industry in Washington, D.C. and advocates on its behalf. The association also operates the industry’s largest trade show (NRA Show, May 18-21, 2019, in Chicago), a food safety training and certification program (ServSafe) and a unique career-building high school program (the NRAEF’s ProStart).

The National Restaurant Association’s new board officers will provide the critical leadership necessary to ensure the restaurant industry continues toward growth and success.