Lola Beans, the fast-growing drive-thru beverage franchise serving handcrafted coffee, infused sodas, and plant-based energy drinks, has announced the appointment of Jessie Bray as Fractional Chief Operating Officer.
Bray joins Lola Beans at a pivotal moment in the brand’s growth, bringing deep expertise in hospitality operations, franchise readiness, and scalable growth systems. In his role, Bray will lead operational strategy, infrastructure development, and multi-market execution as the brand builds the foundation for long-term expansion.
“Jessie brings the operational discipline and leadership experience we need as we grow,” said Donny Bradley, founder and CEO of Lola Beans. “He understands how to scale without losing the heart of a brand.”
Bray is a seasoned hospitality executive who serves as Fractional COO for multiple QSR and drive-thru brands, leading operational strategy, franchise infrastructure, and multi-market expansion. He previously served as President and Chief Revenue Officer of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, where he helped scale the brand and was recognized by FastCasual.com as one of the Top 25 Executives in Fast Casual. He is also the co-founder of People & Profit Movers, a consulting firm that partners with hospitality founders and leadership teams to strengthen operations, develop leaders, and prepare brands for growth.
“What drew me to Lola Beans is the authenticity of the culture and the clarity of the vision,” said Bray. “This is a brand built on real hospitality and community connection. I’m excited to help put the operational and training systems in place that support franchise partners, protect the culture, and allow the brand to scale the right way.”
“Jessie’s appointment further strengthens Lola Beans’ culture-driven team that’s powered by good energy,” said John Moates, Founder of SHCC Brands and Lola Beans’ exclusive development partner. “I’ve seen the impact he can make on an organization”. Bray and Moates have worked together across multiple emerging franchise concepts.
Bray’s addition comes at an ideal time as Lola Beans builds momentum across key markets, including a major Area Representative partnership in Texas.
