News

HMSHost taps former Jamba, Starbucks exec as COO

Joe Thornton is now EVP and COO at HMSHost.

March 2, 2020

HMSHost, a restaurateur known for operating in airports and motorways, has appointed industry veteran Joe Thornton as EVP and COO. He will oversee HMSHost operations of more than 1,700 food and beverage locations in North America, as well as culinary, supply chain, and marketing and communications.

Thornton, who most recently had been serving as COO at Jamba was with Starbucks Coffee Company for 11 years including as SVP, where he led the operation of 2,400 company-operated stores and 40,000 employees.

"I am excited for Joe to join the HMSHost executive team as our new COO, HMSHost President & CEO Steve Johnson said in a company press release. "He brings decades of leadership experience and a deep understanding of food and beverage that will further HMSHost’s position as innovators in the dining industry, and be an invaluable asset for our strategic initiatives. Together, we’ll optimize our success in the rapidly evolving world of travel dining."

He's also a published author. His his first book, "The Power Of Or," was released last month.