Noodles & Company Appoints Joseph Christina as President and CEO

Strategic Insights -

Noodles & Company, a leading restaurant chain, has announced the appointment of Joseph Christina as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective August 31, 2025. Christina will succeed current CEO Drew Madsen, who is stepping down due to personal medical reasons but will continue to serve on the Company's Board of Directors.

Joseph Christina brings extensive experience in QSR and fast-casual restaurant leadership, with expertise spanning operations, financial management, market development, marketing, human resources, and franchise leadership. He has a proven track record of driving revenue and EBITDA growth in competitive markets through focused strategic planning and disciplined execution. Christina's background includes serving as CEO of Tijuana Flats, EVP of US Operations at Church's Chicken, and SVP of U.S. Franchise Operations for the West Division at Burger King.

In connection with his appointment, Noodles & Company entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Christina, which provides for an annual base salary of $550,000, an annual bonus opportunity, and an initial equity grant of 250,000 restricted stock units.

Key Takeaways:

  • Noodles & Company has appointed Joseph Christina as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 31, 2025.
  • Drew Madsen is stepping down as CEO due to personal medical reasons, but will continue to serve on the Company's Board of Directors.
  • Christina brings extensive experience in QSR and fast-casual restaurant leadership, with expertise in operations, financial management, market development, and franchise leadership.
  • The Company has entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Christina, which includes an annual base salary of $550,000 and an initial equity grant of 250,000 restricted stock units.
  • The appointment of Christina is expected to drive growth and unlock long-term value for Noodles & Company's guests, team members, franchisees, and shareholders.

Statistics:

  • August 31, 2025: Effective date of Joseph Christina's appointment as President and CEO.
  • $550,000: Annual base salary for Joseph Christina.
  • 250,000: Number of restricted stock units included in the initial equity grant for Joseph Christina.
  • 29 years: Length of Joseph Christina's career at Burger King.

Sources:

  • GLOBE NEWSWIRE, "Noodles & Company Appoints Joseph D. Christina As President and Chief Executive Officer"
  • EdgAR Online, "Noodles & Company, 8-K, Current report, item 5.02"
  • SEC filings, Form 8-K, Current Report, Item 9.01, Exhibits