Focus Brands Appoints Jim Holthouser to CEO Role

Focus Brands, the parent company of franchise brands such as Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba Juice, Moe’s Southwest Grill and more, has appointed Jim Holthouser to the role of CEO, according to a Nation’s Restaurant News report.

Holthouser succeeds Steve DeSutter, who is retiring. Holthouser most recently served as the executive vice president of global brands, marketing and loyalty at Hilton Worldwide, according to the article.

“Focus Brands is an outstanding company, recognized globally for its iconic brands, and I am pleased to take on this role at such an exciting time in the company’s history,” Holthouser said in a statement, according to the article. “I look forward to working with the Focus Brands team, franchisees, and suppliers to continue growing our leading foodservices concepts, enhancing our customers’ experience and delivering value to all of our partners.”