Jenn Johnston
About Jenn Johnston
Jenn Johnston is the President of the Quick Service Restaurant Division at FAT Brands Inc., where she has worked since 2021. With extensive experience in the franchise sector, she has held various leadership roles, including Interim CEO at Global Franchise Group and Senior Vice President at NexCen Franchise Management, and is recognized for her contributions to community development and fundraising efforts.
Current Role at FAT Brands
Jenn Johnston serves as the President of the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Division at FAT Brands Inc. since 2021. In this role, she is responsible for managing multiple strategic brand teams, overseeing various functions including marketing, operations, research and development, training, communications, and customer service activities for several brands within the division. Her leadership focuses on enhancing brand performance and driving growth in the competitive quick service restaurant sector.
Previous Experience in Franchise Management
Prior to her current position, Jenn Johnston held several significant roles in franchise management. She worked at Global Franchise Group as Chief Marketing & Operations Officer from 2010 to 2019, and briefly served as Interim Chief Executive Officer in 2019. Additionally, she was the Senior Vice President of Brand Marketing at NexCen Franchise Management Inc. from 2007 to 2010. Her extensive experience in these roles contributed to her expertise in the franchise industry.
Educational Background
Jenn Johnston holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurship and Finance from Georgetown University, where she studied from 1998 to 2000. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and Communications from Boston College, completing her studies from 1991 to 1995. Her educational background has equipped her with a strong foundation in both business management and effective communication.
Philanthropic Involvement
Jenn Johnston is actively involved in philanthropic activities, contributing to community development projects. She has served as Board President for the Maryland Chapter of the Chron’s & Colitis Foundation and has played a significant role in fundraising initiatives, including a national retail program campaign that raised over $3 million for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Her efforts have resulted in a personal fundraising impact exceeding $500,000 for the Maryland local chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout her career, Jenn Johnston has received several accolades for her contributions to the industry and community. She was awarded the IFA’s Enduring Value Award for Fundraising Impact and the Phillips Entrepreneurship Prize at Georgetown University. Her recognition reflects her innovative problem-solving approaches and commitment to mentoring emerging leaders in the restaurant industry.