Subway appoints Jonathan Fitzpatrick as new CEO amid challenges

In the United States, Subway has announced the hiring of Jonathan Fitzpatrick as its new CEO. Fitzpatrick, who has a notable background in the fast-food industry, will officially commence his role on July 28, 2025. His appointment marks a significant moment for the Miami-based sandwich chain, as he becomes the first CEO hired since Subway was acquired by the private equity firm Roark Capital in 2024. This acquisition came after years of declining sales as Subway struggled to compete with rapidly growing rivals such as Jersey Mike's and Firehouse Subs. Fitzpatrick brings considerable experience to his new role, having previously served as the president and CEO of Driven Brands, a company also owned by Roark Capital. His past leadership roles at Burger King, where he held various senior positions including executive vice president, further bolster his credentials for leading Subway. The decision to appoint him can be seen as a strategic move aimed at revitalizing a brand that has faced increasing competition in the fast-casual dining sector. Subway has acknowledged the shifting preferences of its customers, who have expressed a desire for more innovative menu items beyond the traditional build-your-own sub model. In response, the company launched a new line of chef-developed sandwiches in 2022, signaling its commitment to modernizing its offerings. Roark Capital, which specializes in restaurant management, aims to further innovate Subway's restaurants and expand its international presence. Roark retains a strong portfolio of restaurant brands, including Inspire Brands, which operates several popular chains. The appointment of Fitzpatrick represents a renewed hope for Subway as it strives to regain market share and improve its financial performance. With his extensive background in the restaurant industry, there is optimism that Fitzpatrick will help steer Subway toward future growth. His immediate challenge will be to overcome the hurdles that have contributed to Subway's decline in sales over the past few years and to re-establish the brand as a significant player in the competitive sandwich market.