Subway announced on Monday that Jonathan Fitzpatrick, a seasoned fast-food industry executive formerly with Burger King, will become its CEO starting July 28. The appointment aims to boost sales and support global expansion efforts.
Fitzpatrick most recently served as president and CEO of automotive services company Driven Brands. Before that, he held several leadership roles at Burger King, including executive vice president and chief brand and operations officer.
The sandwich chain, which operates nearly 37,000 locations worldwide, was acquired about two years ago by private equity firm Roark Capital in a deal valuing the company at up to $9.55 billion, including debt.
Fitzpatrick succeeds John Chidsey, who stepped down at the end of last year after five years leading Subway. Fitzpatrick will work alongside interim CEO Carrie Walsh during the transition period.
Fitzpatrick’s hire follows a months-long search for Chidsey’s replacement. Chidsey retired after overseeing the company’s $9.6 billion sale to Roark Capital in 2023.
Before joining Subway, Fitzpatrick spent over 12 years leading another Roark-backed company, Driven Brands, stepping down earlier this year. His previous roles at Burger King included chief brand and operations officer.
Interestingly, Chidsey also spent time at Burger King, having led the chain a decade before joining Subway until its acquisition by 3G Capital, which later formed Restaurant Brands International.
The leadership change comes amid challenges for fast-food restaurants overall, as consumers dine out less frequently and seek deals that pressure already thin profit margins.
“I’m excited by the opportunity to shape the future of the company, working alongside our valued franchisees and employees to help drive increased sales and franchisee profitability,” Fitzpatrick said in a statement.
Subway itself faces competition from fast-casual eateries and other sandwich chains, which have chipped away at its market share over the past 15 years. Last year, its sales declined 3.8%, according to Technomic data.
Over the past three years, Subway has shuttered 1,645 locations, according to its 2025 franchise disclosure document. Additionally, Subway recorded the lowest average-unit volumes among the 50 chains examined in Circana’s report, indicating persistent profitability challenges. In contrast, consumer spending at Jersey Mike’s increased by 16% last year.
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