TGI Fridays names COO, CFO

TGI Fridays has appointed two restaurant industry veterans to its C-suite.

The casual dining chain grill named  Ray Risley as U.S president and COO and Nik Rupp as president of international markets and CFO. The appointments come as TGI Fridays continues to implement a growth plan to revitalize the iconic brand globally under the leadership of Weldon Spangler, who was appointed CEO in October.

COO

As COO, Risley be responsible for the management of the operational facets and performance standards of all TGI Fridays establishments in the United States, including company-owned and franchised locations. He joins the company after serving as CEO of Via 313 Pizzeria, where he doubled the brand's number of units and successfully positioned the independent pizza chain for significant future expansion, according to TGI Fridays release. 

Risley notably spent nearly 20 years in a variety of leadership roles at Del Frisco's Restaurant Group, Inc.

CFO

Rupp joins Fridays after spending nearly six years at  Papa Murphys International, where he most recently held the role of COO, subsequent to serving as CFO. Throughout his tenure at Papa Murphy's, he played an instrumental role in driving a clear vision, strategy and growth for the international pizza company, the release said. 

Previously, Rupp held leadership positions at global consumer brands that include Nike and Converse.

"We have a significant opportunity to lead this much-loved, heritage brand through a revitalized new chapter, and by bringing on Ray and Nik to our leadership team, we are confident in what we can accomplish in the coming year," said Spangler, "Not only do Ray and Nik have tremendous experience in the restaurant industry that will drive growth for our brand and our franchisees, but their enthusiasm and passion for TGI Fridays will also be a cornerstone to our vision for the company."

TGI Fridays operates and franchises nearly 700 restaurants across 51 countries.