Smashburger announced the promotion of David Biederman to the position of chief development officer, where he will oversee information technology, purchasing, and real estate, in addition to his previous responsibilities leading construction and development.

“Dave has been an integral member of Smashburger’s core development team and was instrumental in developing the restaurant’s initial operating platform, smashing process, restaurant design as well as construction processes critical to the brand’s success today,” says Scott Crane, chief executive officer of Smashburger. “I would like to congratulate him on his promotion, and we look forward to leveraging his expertise in a broader way to reinforce operations, develop, and strengthen the Smashburger brand across the globe.”

Additionally, Smashburger announced it has entered into franchise agreements with five new groups who will grow the brand across the U.S. Smashburger has also expanded its agreements with six veteran partners. The combined commitments, totaling 61 new restaurants, bring Smashburger’s total active franchise pipeline to approximately 461 restaurants set to open over the next several years.

“Our first quarter of 2014 was particularly strong for Smashburger franchise sales, outpacing all of 2013 in a single quarter,” says Scott Crane, CEO of Smashburger. “We see this as a clear indication that our brand is resonating with franchise partners as well as with the consumer, who is demanding better dining options in their communities. We are thrilled to expand our relationships with these veteran franchisees and welcome each of our new partners to the Smashburger family. We look forward to working together to develop our leading fast casual brand in new and existing territories across the country.”