Subway hires former Burger King exec Jonathan Fitzpatrick as new CEO

Subway is getting new leadership as it looks to revive its place in the fast-food hierarchy.

The sandwich chain announced Monday that Jonathan Fitzpatrick will take over as CEO starting July 28. He replaces John Chidsey, who stepped down last year after leading Subway through several years of menu changes and modernization efforts.

Fitzpatrick brings decades of experience in brand and operations leadership—most recently serving as CEO of Driven Brands, the parent company of Meineke, Maaco, and other automotive service providers. He previously held executive positions at Burger King, where he was executive vice president.

Who is Subway’s new CEO?

The backstory:

Fitzpatrick’s hiring marks a major move by Roark Capital, the private equity firm that purchased Subway in 2024. He’s the first CEO hired under Roark’s ownership—and they didn’t have to look far. Since 2012, Fitzpatrick led Driven Brands, another Roark-backed company, through rapid growth and a successful IPO.

FILE - Subway has announced Jonathan Fitzpatrick as its new CEO, marking the sandwich chain’s first leadership change since its acquisition by Roark Capital in 2024. (photo by Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images)

Subway, founded in 1965, has long held a top spot in global restaurant rankings, operating nearly 37,000 locations across more than 100 countries. But in recent years, it has struggled to keep pace with rising competition from newer, fast-growing chains like Jersey Mike’s and Firehouse Subs.

What we know:

Fitzpatrick will officially begin his role on July 28. Roark Capital is expected to support continued modernization and international expansion under his leadership. 

Subway has already taken steps to refresh its menu and brand image in recent years.

What we don't know:

The company hasn’t detailed Fitzpatrick’s short-term priorities or whether additional executive changes are coming. It also remains unclear whether he will shift the company’s focus from domestic reinvention to international growth.

What's next:

Subway’s new CEO steps into the role at a pivotal moment. With competition rising and customer expectations shifting, Fitzpatrick will be tasked with helping the brand evolve—without losing its global footprint. 

His track record in scaling consumer brands will likely play a central role in Subway’s next chapter.

The Source: This article is based on an official company announcement released by Subway on July 22, 2025, and background reporting from The Associated Press. Additional information was gathered from public company records, previous leadership announcements, and Roark Capital’s portfolio details.

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