News

CiCi’s taps new director of real estate services

December 6, 2010

CiCi’s Pizza has named Deb Chappell as its new director of real estate services and support.

A 25-year veteran to the restaurant industry, Chappell will secure agreements with multi-unit franchise partners and developers in her new role. The timing of her hiring comes as the Texas-based company actively recruits franchise partners for its plans to expand to 500 units within the next eight to 10 years.

Her duties will include building on CiCi’s diversity in franchising and continued growth, including in non-traditional locations such as airports, college campuses and military bases.

Before joining CiCi’s, Chappell led expansion efforts for companies such as Chili’s Grill & Bar, Romano’s Macaroni Grill and BJ’s Restaurants.

"Deb's experience and the relationships she's forged with multi-unit franchisees and developers across the country are powerful assets to the CiCi's brand," said CiCi's Pizza CEO Mike Shumsky. "She is key to executing our strategic growth plan."