Saladworks parent Woworks adds to its C-suite
The restaurant chain operator, which also owns concepts like Frutta Bowls and Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, named James Walker chief growth officer and Nolan Woods chief operating officer.
May 28, 2026
Woworks is building its C-suite.
The owner of Saladworks, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, Frutta Bowls and other concepts on Thursday named longtime industry executive James Walker its new chief growth officer and Nolan Woods chief operating officer.
Walker is a longtime industry executive who has worked with numerous chains, including Nathan’s Famous, Baja Fresh, Cinnabon and Subway. He most recently was the CEO of the tech company Lunchbox.
At Woworks, which operates a half-dozen concepts, Walker will oversee franchise growth efforts, market expansion and franchise recruitment.
Woods, meanwhile, is being promoted from his current job as SVP of operations. His career includes stops at McDonald’s and Panera Bread. As COO he will focus on franchise and company operations, training and development and guest service.
Kelly Roddy, CEO of Woworks, called Walker a “game changer” for the company and said he will help identify “high-quality franchise partners to drive our growth.”
Nolan, Roddy said, “has demonstrated exceptional commitment as both a franchisee and operator” and “will ensure we deliver excellence to our guests every day.”
Woworks’ concepts operate nearly 240 locations nationwide. The St. Petersburg, Florida-based company also operates The Simple Greek, Barberitos and Zoup! Eatery.
About the Author
Jonathan Maze
Editor in Chief, Restaurant Business
Restaurant Business Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Maze is a longtime industry journalist who writes about restaurant finance, mergers and acquisitions and the economy, with a particular focus on quick-service restaurants. He writes daily about the factors influencing the operating environment, including labor and food costs and various industry trends such as technology and delivery.
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