Noodles & Company Appoints Joseph D. Christina as President and CEO, Reschedules Earnings Call

Noodles & Company has promoted Joseph D. Christina to President and CEO, effective August 31. Christina, currently President and COO, will succeed Drew Madsen, who is stepping down due to personal medical reasons but will remain on the board. Christina has an extensive background in QSR and fast-casual restaurant leadership, with a proven track record of driving revenue and EBITDA growth. The company will host a conference call on August 13 to discuss its second quarter 2025 financial results.

Noodles & Company has promoted Joseph Christina to President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 31. Christina, currently the company's President and Chief Operating Officer, will succeed Drew Madsen, who is stepping down due to personal medical reasons but will remain on the board. Christina brings extensive experience in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) and fast-casual sectors, with a proven track record of driving revenue and EBITDA growth.

Christina began his career at Burger King, progressing from restaurant manager to franchisee, and later became the Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations for the West Division. He served as the Chief Executive Officer of Church’s Chicken before joining Tijuana Flats. His appointment at Noodles & Company, effective August 31, is a testament to his leadership skills and operational expertise.

Madsen, who previously served as the President of Panera Bread and spent 15 years at Darden Restaurants, will facilitate the transition through August and continue to serve on the company’s Board of Directors. Madsen was named interim CEO in November 2023 and permanent CEO in March 2024, overseeing the launch of a new menu and digital menu boards, as well as operational efficiencies and training process updates.

Christina will receive an annual base salary of $550,000, a $100,000 raise from his previous role, and an annual bonus opportunity of 100% of his salary, prorated to his February 2025 hire date. Additionally, he will receive 250,000 restricted stock units as an initial equity grant.

The company will host a conference call on August 13 to discuss its second quarter 2025 financial results. Noodles & Company has seen a week delay in its quarterly earnings call, now scheduled for August 13 after market.

The promotion of Christina comes at a pivotal moment for Noodles & Company, which has been undergoing a brand revitalization. The company has been focusing on operational excellence and enhancing its menu offerings to unlock long-term value for guests, team members, franchisees, and shareholders.

References:
[1] https://www.nrn.com/fast-casual/noodles-company-promotes-joseph-christina-from-president-to-ceo
[2] https://seekingalpha.com/news/4479096-noodles-company-names-joseph-d-christina-as-president-and-ceo
[3] https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/the-2025-qsr-50-fast-foods-leading-annual-report/