Four Proven Executives Promoted at Home of the Original Hamburger

ALISO VIEJO, Calif., Jan. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnny Rockets today announced corporate promotions for four key members of their Senior Leadership Team, effective immediately. Chris Carver and Ray Masters have been promoted to Senior Vice Presidents, while Cris Pangan and Scott Gillie move up to Vice Presidential positions. Credited to their extensive experience and evidenced decision making skills, the Company's CEO and Board of Directors believe these successful leaders will help take Johnny Rockets to the next level.

According to Johnny Rockets President and CEO, "These four executives have demonstrated their ability to increase the perceptions of our brand and to provide solid direction for their respective departments.  I'm confident that their professionalism, positivity and progressive ideas will continue to make our company grow in every way possible."

The first promotion announced is that of Chris Carver from Vice President to Senior Vice President of Operations. With Johnny Rockets since July, 2007, Carver has held the Franchise Operations titles of Director, Executive Director and Vice President. He has worked diligently toward - and succeeded in - creating mutually beneficial relationships throughout the Johnny Rockets Franchise community and has been key in managing the effectiveness of the newly formed Franchise Leadership Council. Prior to joining the Company, Carver was an educator, franchisee and executive with brands that include Togo's and Allied Domecq, now Dunkin Brands. He holds Masters degrees in both psychology and education.

Ray Masters has also been promoted from Vice President to Senior Vice President of Purchasing, Distribution and Quality Assurance. After successfully contributing to the rapid growth and IPO of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Masters joined Johnny Rockets in June of this year. In six months, he has made remarkable progress in upgrading the quality and safety of the Company's key raw materials, including ground beef and poultry, and he simultaneously consolidated and upgraded their global distribution network, spearheading the transition to a global distribution network. He also brings significant experience in the areas of manufacturing, restaurant operations and all areas of supply chain solutions. In fact, while the industry is bracing for another year of commodity uncertainness, Johnny Rockets Cost of Goods continues to fall due to Masters' expertise.

Cris Pangan will now be Vice President of Development. He is leading the innovation of several new concepts and is helping us meet the Company's international growth objectives.  Under his direction, Johnny Rockets has already made great strides in developing new floor plans and design standards for a variety of new venues. Since joining Johnny Rockets, Pangan has cultivated relationships with – and earned the respect of – several key internal and external constituents. His 21 years of experience includes various domestic and international positions with Yum Brands, such as Taco Bell, KFC, Pizza Hut and Chevy's, as well as Asia Franchise Brands.

Scott Gillie, a member of the Johnny Rockets team since September 2009, will move from Director to Vice President of Franchise Sales. He is responsible for all domestic franchising of the brand and has already brought a significant number of influential potential Franchise Partners to the table. As he works with Fuller and the rest of the development team, he will continue to focus on quality restaurateurs with business plans that are positioned for success.  A retired U.S. Navy Officer, Gillie previously managed business and franchise development for Dairy Queen, Arby's and El Pollo Loco.

For more information about Johnny Rockets or their franchising opportunities go to www.johnnyrockets.com.

Photos available upon request.

SOURCE Johnny Rockets