ALISO VIEJO, Calif., Dec. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- All-American restaurant franchisor, Johnny Rockets, announces the appointment of James Walker as Chief Development Officer (CDO). With more than twenty years experience, Walker brings advanced knowledge and expertise in franchise development to the Johnny Rockets team.

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Previously, Walker served as the CDO for the Tampa Florida based Beef 'O' Brady's and The Brass Tap concepts. Prior to this, Walker served as CDO of Fresh Brands, the parent company of Baja Fresh, Sweet Factory, La Salsa and Canyon's Burger. Walker also served as National Director of Operations for AFC Enterprises/Cinnabon, Inc.

"James has represented major brands within our industry, and we are thrilled that he has decided to join the Johnny Rockets team," said John Fuller, President and CEO of Johnny Rockets. "This is an exciting time for Johnny Rockets, as our company experiences unprecedented growth, both domestically and internationally. With James as the latest addition to our executive team, I am positive the brand will continue to exemplify strength in our global expansion."

As CDO, Walker's primary responsibility will be to oversee domestic development strategy, including construction, design and real estate.   His goal will be to expand the brand in underserved communities and bring the Johnny Rockets experience to traditional locations, as well as non-traditional locations, such as airports, amusement parks and casinos.

"This is an amazing time of growth and development for Johnny Rockets, and an exciting time to be a part of this incredibly successful leadership team," stated Walker. "I look forward to driving the organizations continued growth and delivering the Johnny Rockets 'gotta dance' experience to new cities, states and countries around the globe."  

Possessing a true passion for the culinary industry and restaurant operations and development, Walker attended the New England Culinary Institute and received his Masters in Business Administration from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business.

Johnny Rockets currently has more than 300 restaurants in 30 states, 23 countries and aboard 11 Royal Caribbean cruise ships. Additionally, the brand will soon open restaurants in three new countries; Brazil, India and Pakistan.

For more information about Johnny Rockets and its franchising opportunities, go to www.johnnyrockets.com.

SOURCE Johnny Rockets