News

Newk's hires former la Madeline operations VP

Provided

February 10, 2020

Newk's Eatery has named Joe Pate as its first chief operations officer, a position created to expand the operations team as part its growth plan.

Pate comes to Newk's with 35 years of experience in the restaurant industry, serving more than 20 years with la Madeline, most recently as vice president of operations, where he oversaw la Madeline's largest franchise group, according to a press release.

Pate helped to take the concept from 12 to more than 85 units, where he helped transition the company from a commissary-based concept to a more profitable unit production concept in 2001, as well as moving the company from a corporate-based concept to a franchise-driven growth company in 2017. As vice president of the largest franchise of la Madeleine, Pate and his team grew the franchise from 25 to over 40 units in just three years with company leading results.

"I am confident that Joe will be instrumental to the growth and continued success of Newk's' restaurant operations with his exceptional track record and deep-rooted knowledge in restaurant leadership," Chris Newcomb, CEO of Newk's Eatery, said in the release. "Joe has proven to excel in building and growing cross-functional teams with both corporate and franchise operations, combining strategic, results-driven programs, while also cultivating his passion for great food."

Pate will oversee company and franchise operations, as well as catering and operations services. 

"I'm thrilled for the opportunity to join the operations team and bring industry-leading innovation and systems to a brand I truly believe in," Pate said in the release. "My focus is to use my experience and passion for the food and restaurant industry to propel the growth of our people and our restaurants, setting the bar high in growth and operational excellence."

Founded in 2004 and based in Jackson, Mississippi, Newk's Eatery has more than 120 restaurants in 16 states.