SAN ANTONIO, TX – Whataburger CEO Ed Nelson will retire at the end of 2024 after two decades with the Texas-based burger chain, the company announced in a press release on Tuesday.
Nelson has held the CEO position since 2020 and has played a pivotal role in expanding the company, which now operates 1,052 locations in 16 states, with over 70% in Texas.
Debbie Stroud, currently the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Whataburger, will succeed Nelson as CEO effective January 1, 2025. Stroud, who joined Whataburger in early 2023, has more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including leadership roles at Starbucks and McDonald’s.
Nelson, who joined the company in 2004 as a controller and rose through the ranks to become CFO and later president, expressed pride in his time with Whataburger.
“Leading this company has truly been one of the greatest joys of my life,” Nelson stated. "The incredible individuals and family members who make up our team are a blessing, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together."
Stroud, in a statement, expressed her excitement about taking on the CEO role, highlighting her dedication to continuing Whataburger’s legacy.
"I am honored to be selected as the next CEO of Whataburger, a family-founded, beloved brand with a strong legacy and fan base," Debbie Stroud stated. "Working alongside Ed and our dedicated leadership team has been an extraordinary experience. I am eager to realize the bright future ahead for our company, our 51,000 Family Members, and the communities we serve."
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