Whataburger Names QSR veteran Ryan Moore as new CFO

Whataburger has appointed QSR finance veteran Ryan Moore as its next Chief Financial Officer. Joining the business on 31 July, Ryan brings deep restaurant sector experience to guide the company's financial strategy as the brand continues its expansion.

Ryan’s 16 years of restaurant finance leadership include six years as Chief Financial Officer of Torchy's Tacos and a decade at Taco Bell, where he served as Vice President of Finance. 

His background includes helping restaurant brands expand beyond their core markets, aligning investment with growth – in addition to preparing organisations for their next stage.

“Ryan is a proven financial leader with deep experience in the restaurant industry and a strong track record of helping brands navigate periods of meaningful growth,” says Whataburger CEO and President Debbie Stroud. 

“He's a collaborative leader who understands that when you invest wisely in your people, your operations and the customer experience, stronger financial results follow. He also understands how to create sustainable growth while protecting the qualities that have made Whataburger an iconic brand for 76 years. 

“I'm excited to welcome Ryan to our leadership team as we continue building for the future.”

Balancing heritage with national reach

The appointment arrives as the fast-food chain looks to expand its footprint beyond its traditional regional base while retaining its core identity.

“Whataburger is an iconic regional brand with the opportunity to become a national player,” Ryan notes. “Success means finding the right way to share Whataburger with people who have not yet had the opportunity to experience it, while keeping the core essence and heart of the brand.

“It means making the right investments, taking the right risks and adapting thoughtfully as we enter new markets."

A period of landmark expansion

Ryan succeeds Janelle Sykes, who will retire in September following a six-year tenure at the company. Janelle joined Whataburger in February 2020 and led its financial management through the most expansive growth period in the company's history. 

During her time in the role, the brand scaled from 860 restaurants across 11 states to nearly 1,200 locations across 17 states today.

Debbie continues: “Janelle's leadership has made a lasting impact on Whataburger, and we are deeply grateful for everything she has contributed.

“Her knowledge of the business is invaluable, and she has laid the groundwork for our next chapter of success.”

Janelle will work alongside Ryan through September to ensure a smooth transition across Whataburger’s financial leadership team.

“Throughout my time with the brand, I have often said, 'There's never been a better time to be at Whataburger,' and it rings just as true today,” Janelle explains.

“I am incredibly proud of what this team has built and grateful for the people I have had the privilege to work alongside. Whataburger has a clear strategy, a talented team and tremendous opportunity ahead. I will always be proud of what we accomplished together and excited to see where the brand goes next.”