Ex-Hopdoddy CEO Jeff Chandler joins True Food Kitchen
True Food Kitchen names Jeff Chandler as new CEO to steer growth amidst challenges.
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True Food Kitchen has appointed Jeff Chandler, former CEO of Hopdoddy, as its new CEO. This leadership change comes as the brand seeks to recover from a decline in systemwide sales and to drive growth with a focus on operational consistency. Under Chandler's previous leadership, Hopdoddy expanded significantly, making him a candidate to revitalize True Food.
Why It Matters
This leadership change suggests an emphasis on operational improvement and growth strategies, which may influence franchisee unit economics moving forward.
True Food Kitchen has appointed Jeff Chandler as its new CEO, succeeding interim CEO Jim Dunn, who had stepped in after John Williams' resignation. Chandler brings a decade of experience from his previous role as CEO of Hopdoddy Burger Bar, where he oversaw significant growth, expanding the chain's locations from 20 to 48 and boosting sales by nearly 225% to $138 million. His leadership at Hopdoddy is seen as a strong indicator of his capability to guide True Food Kitchen through a challenging period; the brand experienced a decline in systemwide sales of 0.7% in 2025 and had to close one location, marking its first year of negative sales since its establishment in 2008, aside from the pandemic year of 2020.
Chandler's focus at True Food Kitchen will be on prioritizing operational consistency, nurturing a people-first culture, and aligning with the brand's mission of offering wholesome and craveable food options. In his statement, he expressed enthusiasm about leading the company, highlighting the importance of its foundational principles. Chandler replaces Dunn as True Food Kitchen aims to navigate strategic shifts towards growth and recovery after a challenging year.
True Food Kitchen, founded by Dr. Andrew Weil and restaurateur Sam Fox, features anti-inflammatory foods and currently operates 45 units across 18 states. Alongside Chandler, the company welcomes several other recent leadership changes, including new Chief Marketing Officer Anthony Nguyen and board members Tariq Hassan and Denny Post, further emphasizing a strategic pivot towards enhancing brand integrity and customer engagement amid evolving consumer preferences for wellness and ingredient quality.
