Cracker Barrel updates organizational structure, ends engagement with Prophet

Cracker Barrel (CBRL) Old Country Store announced leadership and organizational structure enhancements. “These changes to our organizational structure, along with new leadership appointments and promotions, mark a strategic step forward as we sharpen our focus on consistently craveable food and warm country hospitality,” said Julie Masino, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cracker Barrel. “This transition reduces layers in the organization as we bring a hyperfocus on ensuring both every plate served and every interaction with our guests reflects the care and quality we stand for.” The updated organizational structure, which is also designed to streamline the leadership team and better support the field, includes the following leadership changes: Doug Hisel, previously VP, Field Operations, has been promoted to SVP, Store Operations, overseeing Field Operations and Operations Services. Mr. Hisel is an 18-year veteran of Cracker Barrel and brings a strong ability to balance operational excellence with a deep understanding of people and Cracker Barrel’s processes and standards. Mr. Hisel started at the Company as an Associate Manager in Indianapolis, IN in 2007 and has served in various other operations roles of increasing responsibility. As the Operations team is reorganized, the Company has restructured responsibilities and eliminated the role of SVP and Chief Restaurant and Retail Operations Officer previously held by Cammie Spillyards-Schaefer. Thomas Yun is rejoining the Company as Vice President, Menu Strategy & Innovation, replacing Matthew Banton. Mr. Yun previously served in this role at Cracker Barrel from 2022 to 2024 and was responsible for developing some of the Company’s most successful menu introductions of the past several years while overseeing and honoring classic favorites, including Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Rice, and Pot Roast. Mr. Yun brings significant experience in the restaurant industry, driving menu innovation strategy rooted in classic country dishes that deliver for the guest. Heather Hager, VP, Retail & Design, and Heather Gammon, VP, Demand Planning, are each taking on expanded roles and absorbing responsibilities of Laura Daily, SVP, Chief Merchant and Retail Supply Chain following her recently announced retirement. The company also confirmed that it is ending its engagement with Prophet, the global strategic and creative growth consultancy that advised Cracker Barrel on its previous brand refresh initiatives, including the logo and restaurant redesigns.