The Subway submarine sandwich and salad chain announced that Joe Chaves will head up operations for the 35,500-plus-unit restaurant chain as director of operations, while Rebecca Audet has been named the brand's director of worldwide training.
Chaves, who has been with the Subway restaurant chain for five years, has 28 years experience in the quick-serve industry, including time as a Dunkin’ Donuts/Baskin-Robbins franchisee. Audet is a Subway franchisee, owning two locations in Vermont, while also overseeing 1,000-plus restaurants as the manager of U.S. and International company-run (or held) territories. Audet will continue this field work in addition to training.
"Training is the cornerstone of any organization, especially in franchising where we need to teach people how our system works and how to achieve the highest level of efficiency. As the largest [quick serve] in the world, I know I have been entrusted with a critical responsibility," says Audet, a graduate of Columbia University who lists one of her favorite sandwiches as the egg white on flatbread with spinach, green peppers, onions, tomatoes, chipotle sauce, and salt and pepper.
"Subway is doing extremely well, especially considering the current global economy," says Chaves, a devout fan of the Italian BMT sub. "It continues to be a remarkably good investment for our existing and future franchisees. I am looking forward to supporting all of our partners by building on the brand's great track record."
A Connecticut native, Audet moved to Vermont after attending college in New York City. During her senior year at Columbia University, Audet purchased her first franchise, skipping her graduation rehearsal to attend a zoning meeting on the location.
As director of training, Audet will oversee the brand's entire training program, which includes 13 global training centers, an e-leaning program, as well as the education and training of Sandwich Artists, managers, franchisees, field consultants, and Development Agents. "I am excited to welcome new franchisees joining the Subway team so they feel part of the family and excited about their investment and new endeavor," she says.
A Rhode Island native who has also spent time in Florida, Chaves joined the Subway chain five years ago and immediately made an impact working on several projects, such as expanding catering capabilities and improving the customer service experience. He also led the company territory teams to improve operations and profitability.
"This will be a challenging and exciting opportunity, and a privilege to serve this great brand and the thousands of franchisees, development agents, and staff," Chaves says.
