Subway Charts a New Course as Leadership Transition Begins

Subway, one of the world’s largest restaurant chains, has announced that Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John Chidsey will retire at the close of 2024, concluding five years of transformative leadership. During this period, the company saw substantial growth and innovation under his guidance. Carrie Walsh, currently serving as President for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) and formerly the brand’s Global Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), will take over as Interim CEO while the search for a permanent successor is underway.

Walsh stated that she was honored to step into the Interim CEO role and was committed to advancing initiatives aimed at boosting franchisee profitability and enhancing the customer experience through innovation. She highlighted her intention to work closely with Subway’s leadership, employees, and franchisees to continue elevating the brand and delivering high-quality, fresh food to a global audience.

Since joining Subway in 2019, Chidsey has been pivotal in redefining the business as its first CEO from outside the founding family. His tenure was marked by a comprehensive transformation that modernized the menu, improved customer experience, and accelerated digital innovation. He spearheaded a global growth strategy, focusing on attracting well-established, experienced multi-unit operators and master franchisees. These efforts resulted in over 10,000 future restaurant commitments, with plans to more than double new restaurant openings in 2024 compared to 2019.

Clay Harmon, a member of Subway’s Board of Directors, credited Chidsey with setting a lasting standard of leadership. He expressed confidence in Walsh’s ability to navigate this transitional phase, citing her expertise in global operations, brand development, and digital transformation. Harmon emphasized that her leadership would ensure continuity and support Subway’s next chapter.

Walsh’s extensive career includes more than two decades of leadership roles across major restaurant, retail, and consumer brands, such as YUM! Brands, Pizza Hut, and PepsiCo. Since joining Subway’s Executive Leadership Team in 2019, she has played a crucial role in reshaping the brand’s image, both in the U.S. and internationally. As Global CMO, she drove initiatives that re-engaged customers and reinforced Subway’s position as a leader in the quick-service restaurant industry. In her most recent role as EMEA President, she oversaw operations, finance, marketing, and development across 50 countries.

Reflecting on his tenure, Chidsey expressed pride in leading Subway through a period of significant change and commended the team’s collective achievements. He noted Walsh’s deep understanding of what it takes for a global brand to thrive and her dedication to Subway and its franchisees. Chidsey remarked that her leadership would be instrumental in guiding the company through its next phase of growth.

To ensure a smooth transition, Chidsey will continue with Subway in a consulting capacity, focusing on the company’s international growth strategy and strengthening relationships with master franchisees.

Have you read?
What Business Leaders Can Learn from Top Sporting Event Athletes.
African countries with the highest number of internally displaced persons (IDPs)
Revealed: Countries With the Largest Forex Reserves.
Eric Spofford Is Turning People’s Lives Around as a Business Athlete.
Countries buying the most Black Hawk helicopters.