USA – US-based doughnut and coffee chain Krispy Kreme has announced significant leadership changes, including new appointments for Chief Operating Officer and President of International.
The changes aim to enhance profitable expansion in the US and accelerate adoption of the company’s international franchise model.
Nicola Steele, a long-serving executive and current CEO of Krispy Kreme Australia & New Zealand, has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Steele, who will assume her new role on March 3, 2025, will oversee global operations, modernize doughnut production, and optimize the company’s hub-and-spoke distribution model.
The COO position has been vacant since Josh Charlesworth’s promotion to CEO in September 2023.
Dave Skena, formerly Chief Brand Officer, has been promoted to Chief Growth Officer as of January 6, 2025.
In his new role, Skena will lead global store operations, retail partnerships, marketing, and digital sales channels.
Raphael Duvivier, previously Chief Development Officer, has been named President of International.
He will focus on expanding Krispy Kreme’s presence in Europe and Latin America, succeeding Matthew Spanjers, who left the company in November 2024.
Additionally, Alison Holder has been appointed Chief Product Officer. A Krispy Kreme veteran since 2000, Holder brings extensive experience in brand development, product innovation, and consumer insights.
“These leaders all have extensive company experience, commitment to operational excellence, and passion for our iconic fresh doughnuts and beloved brand. As we grow, these leadership changes will result in both a bigger and better Krispy Kreme,” said Charlesworth.
The leadership reshuffle follows a challenging third quarter in which Krispy Kreme reported a 12 percent decline in US revenues. The company attributed the downturn to consumer softness and the July 2024 sale of its Insomnia Cookies business.
However, it highlighted a distribution deal with McDonald’s that is expected to drive fourth-quarter sales.
Earlier in January 2025, the company launched the Krispy Kreme × Pop-Tarts Crazy Good Doughnuts Collection, featuring flavors such as Frosted Strawberry, Frosted Chocolatey Fudge, and Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon.
Founded in 1937, Krispy Kreme operates 2,000 stores and over 13,700 points of access across 40 global markets. Backed by JAB Holding, the company has signed agreements to enter Brazil, Germany, and Spain in 2025.
Full-year 2024 results are expected in February 2025.
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