Smokey Mo's Names Von Dawson VP of Franchise Development

Smokey Mo’s BBQ, the neighborhood barbecue franchise known for serving Texas classics smoked in-house daily with fast, friendly service, has named Von Dawson as its Vice President of Franchise Development as the company continues building its footprint across Texas.

In his new role, Dawson will lead franchise development for Smokey Mo’s, with a focus on building the brand’s pipeline of qualified franchise partners and expanding its presence in new and existing markets across the state. His appointment comes as Smokey Mo’s continues strengthening the operational foundation behind its franchise growth, with an emphasis on restaurant-level performance, franchisee support and a model built to compete in today’s operating environment.

Dawson joins Smokey Mo’s from Dine Brands Global, where he most recently served as Director of Franchise Sales, overseeing franchise sales across the company’s IHOP, Applebee’s and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop brands. Throughout his career in franchise development, he has worked with established restaurant brands to identify qualified operators, build franchise relationships and support development across new markets. Dawson is also a Certified Franchise Executive through the International Franchise Association.

Franchise development plans

“Smokey Mo’s stood out to me because of how much opportunity there is ahead of the concept with its standout identity and operating model,” said Dawson. “Barbecue remains a relatively underserved category in franchising, which creates a unique opportunity for Smokey Mo’s to bring an established brand to more Texas operators and communities. There’s a strong story to tell prospective owners about the business, the team supporting them and the role they can play in what comes next.

I’m looking forward to building on that foundation and introducing Smokey Mo’s to operators who see the same potential in this brand that I do.”

Dawson’s appointment comes at a time when the brand has continued growing while staying focused on the fundamentals of the business. With 22 restaurants across the Austin, San Antonio and Houston areas and additional locations in development, Smokey Mo’s has taken a measured approach to expansion, strengthening restaurant operations and franchisee support while continuing to deliver the food, service and neighborhood experience that have kept guests coming back for more than 25 years.

Business model growth

The brand’s franchise model combines a smaller restaurant footprint and lean labor structure with multiple dayparts and a growing catering business. Smokey Mo’s has also continued investing in restaurant design, kitchen efficiency and digital tools, including a redesigned website, PAR Online Ordering and PAR POS, to strengthen operations and the guest experience.

“We’re thrilled to have Von join our leadership team and bring his depth of franchise development experience to Smokey Mo’s,” said Craig Haley, CEO of Smokey Mo’s BBQ. “He understands what experienced operators are looking for, how to build trust throughout the development process and what it takes to move from initial interest to opening restaurants. His perspective and track record will be instrumental as we look ahead to our next phase of growth in Texas.”

As Smokey Mo’s BBQ franchise grows, the company remains focused on partnering with experienced operators who understand their local communities and see an opportunity to build scalable portfolios with the brand. Dawson will play a central role in identifying those partners and advancing the company’s development strategy across the state.