U.S.A. | Donatos Pizza has announced the upcoming retirement in October of its chief executive officer, Tom Krouse. Kevin King, who has served as president of Donatos Pizza for the past two years, will assume the role of CEO and President upon Krouse's retirement. This well-planned succession ensures a smooth handover and continued success for the brand, built on the strong foundation of family values.
Krouse joined Donatos Pizza in 2000 after 18 years at Wendy's. Before becoming President and CEO in 2010, Krouse oversaw Donatos Pizza's franchise expansion and development of the brand's retail division, Jane's Dough Premium Foods. Throughout his career, his decisions transcended strategy; they were deeply rooted in the ideals established by the founder of Donatos Pizza, Jim Grote. Krouse ensured these core values – a commitment to community, fostering a family atmosphere within the company, and delivering exceptional customer service – were all key parts of the Donatos Pizza experience.
"I feel like the luckiest guy alive to have had the opportunity to lead a company with amazing people and an awesome mission," said Krouse.
"I'm truly honoured. I am so happy for Kevin and Donatos because he is the perfect choice to take this company into the future."
Beyond Krouse's unwavering commitment to the brand's values, he will also be remembered for his remarkable leadership in expanding the Donatos Pizza footprint. Under his guidance, Donatos Pizza has doubled in size, grown from 10 partners to 45 partners, and averaged unit sales 60 percent higher than the pizza industry average.
"When Jane and I promoted Tom to President and CEO, we knew we were about to embark on a new chapter of growth and innovation," said Jim Grote, founder of Donatos Pizza.
"Tom's leadership and passion have had a profound impact on our family business. He has been a living example of our philosophy of Agape Capitalism by leading with love, living the Golden Rule, and always striving to do the right thing. He believes in the possible and clearly sets strategy and vision for the future. Tom's creative approach to growth is deep-rooted in his belief of 'saying yes until there is a reason to say no.' He has built a solid foundation for a prosperous future."
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