#Sonny's BBQ #George McAllan #Katie Love

Sonny's BBQ Expands Leadership Team

As 2025 concludes, Sonny's BBQ, a leader in the BBQ restaurant industry renowned for its commitment to quality food and kindness, has taken significant steps toward future growth. The company has appointed George McAllan as President and Katie Love as Chief Marketing Officer, further expanding its executive team. Together, they are tasked with executing a bold multi-year expansion strategy focused on enhancing franchisee profitability and brand engagement.

Leadership Changes

George McAllan, who joined Sonny's BBQ in November 2024 as the Chief Growth Officer, brings a vast wealth of experience to his new role. With a substantial background in both franchising and operations – including leadership roles overseeing hundreds of restaurants at Dunkin' Brands – his expertise in operational excellence will be crucial for improving franchise profitability.

Katie Love steps into the role of Chief Marketing Officer, having previously been the Vice President of Marketing. Over her more than ten-year tenure, she led transformative initiatives that modernized the brand and strengthened customer engagement through digital channels. Her focus on community-driven initiatives, such as the company's 'Q the Kindness' program, has helped deepen Sonny's BBQ's local impact.

The Vision for Growth

The promotions of McAllan and Love come at a pivotal moment for Sonny's BBQ as it launches the next phase of its comprehensive growth strategy. This plan emphasizes operational excellence while striving to enhance the guest experience and maintain authentic hospitality. Under the stewardship of CEO Jamie Yarmuth, this expanded leadership team is set to navigate Sonny's BBQ into uncharted territory, broadening its reach while staying committed to the brand's rich legacy.

In pursuing culinary innovation, Sonny's BBQ aims to strengthen its market position as a leading BBQ restaurant. Future endeavors include the establishment of a test kitchen to explore new menu items that resonate with loyal fans while attracting newcomers. Exciting concepts like the Pecan Pie Egg Rolls indicate a commitment to both tradition and modernization.

Yarmuth expressed optimism regarding the changes, noting that over the past year, Sonny's BBQ has significantly expanded its customer base and enhanced franchise operations. He emphasized that with McAllan and Love taking the helm, the brand is poised to set new standards within the BBQ industry while honoring the spirit of kindness envisioned by founder Floyd