Johnny Rockets names new operations head, execs

Aliso Viejo, Calif. – Johnny Rockets has promoted James Walker to president of operations and development. Formerly Johnny Rockets' chief development officer, Walker was recently promoted because of his role in orchestrating the franchise's record growth and development since joining in December 2013.



Walker will oversee the brand's development strategy, including construction, design and real estate, as well as domestic and international operations. Prior to joining Johnny Rockets, Walker held the CDO position at Beef 'O' Brady's and The Brass Tap.



In addition, Walker has appointed Jim Hicks as senior VP of domestic operations and Gene Savage as director of franchise sales and real estate. Both Hicks and Savage will report directly to Walker.



A 30-year restaurant industry veteran, Hicks most recently served as VP of operations services at Yoshinoya America Inc.