Barbecue restaurant chain Sonny's BBQ announces the promotions of George McAllan and Katie Love to president and chief marketing officer, respectively. Alongside the rest of the company's recently expanded executive leadership team, McAllan and Love will lead the execution of a multiyear growth plan aimed at further improving key metrics such as franchisee profitability and brand resonance, among others.  

"George and Katie represent the very best of what makes Sonny's BBQ special – a deep commitment to our franchisees, our guests, and the communities we serve. George's proven track record of driving operational excellence and franchisee profitability, combined with Katie's innovative approach to brand modernization and guest engagement, perfectly position Sonny's BBQ for future proofing growth and expansion," said CEO at Sonny's BBQ, Jamie Yarmuth.   

Leadership experience and vision 

McAllan joined Sonny's BBQ in November 2024, assuming the role of chief growth officer. He brings decades of experience working as both a franchisor and franchisee – including five years as chief operations officer with two different franchise groups where he led up to 350 restaurants during his tenure – and various roles with Dunkin' Brands, where he oversaw up to 4,000 restaurants internationally and domestically. As the newly appointed president of Sonny's BBQ, McAllan will play an increasingly larger role in ensuring improved franchisee profitability and regional market growth. 

Love previously served as vice president of marketing and director of brand management for Sonny's BBQ. During her more than a decade-long tenure, Love spearheaded initiatives that modernized the brand's identity, grew guest loyalty and digital channels from the ground up, and deepened community impact through programs like 'Q the Kindness. Now, as chief marketing officer, Love will work closely with Sonny's BBQ's team of restaurant marketing experts, leading brand strategy, guest experience, and marketing innovation. 

Strategic growth objectives 

The promotions come as Sonny's BBQ kicks off the next phase of the company's comprehensive multiyear growth strategy, built to emphasize franchisee profitability, expand operational excellence, authentic hospitality and strengthen connections with customers.

Also central to this growth strategy is a strong focus on culinary innovation. As part of this, the company plans to build a test kitchen within the next 12 months, which will allow for further culinary exploration, as well as expansion of its dedicated culinary team.  

"Over the past year, Sonny's has made incredible strides, expanding our customer base through exciting new marketing campaigns, improved franchisee operations and philanthropy. Now, with George at the helm as president and Katie as chief marketing officer, we'll set new standards for what a BBQ brand can accomplish," said Yarmuth. "Their leadership has been and will continue to be instrumental in expanding our footprint while staying true to the spirit of hospitality and kindness established by our late founder, Floyd 'Sonny' Tillam." 

Source: Sonny’s BBQ