Staffing

Blaze names former Sonic VP to head development

Photo: File/provided.

June 3, 2021

Los Angeles-based Blaze Pizza has named a former Sonic Drive In real estate executive, Johnny Jones, as senior vice president of Development, a news release said.

Jones has spent more than 20 years in the franchise industry leading real estate development, market planning, property negotiations and asset management for restaurant brands. In his role with Blaze Pizza he will use his experience to support the brand's growth going forward.

"We are excited to welcome Johnny as the newest member of our Blaze family," Blaze CEO Mandy Shaw said in the release. "His proficiency in real estate development coupled with a deep understanding of the restaurant industry will undoubtedly fuel our ongoing efforts to rapidly expand Blaze's footprint across the country. Blaze has cultivated an exceptional leadership team led by industry veterans, and we have no doubt that adding Johnny's expertise will be a tremendous asset as we accelerate our unit growth and welcome new franchisees to the brand."

Prior to joining Blaze, Jones served as vice president of real estate and development for Sonic and parent company, Inspire Brands, Under his leadership, the fast-food restaurant chain grew to over 1,000 units, the release said.

"In the restaurant industry, you rarely come across a brand like Blaze Pizza that appeals to the masses, delivers on their promise to only use quality food products, and provides a selection of menu items that will appease the array of dietary preferences we see in today's world," Jones said in the release. "When I had the opportunity to join the team in charge of growing this trailblazing concept, it was an easy yes for me," he said. "After 14 months of navigating a pandemic, now's a great time to accelerate the momentum Blaze has built and expand the brand's footprint in markets nationwide."

Blaze has more than 340 restaurants across 38 states and six countries.