Staffing

WOWorks names James Walker chief growth officer, promotes Nolan Woods to COO

Photo: Woworks

May 28, 2026

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WOWorks, the parent company of Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek, Barberitos and Zoup, has hired James Walker as chief growth officer and promoted Nolan Woods to COO.

"We are thrilled to welcome James to our leadership team and to promote Nolan, who has demonstrated exceptional commitment as both a franchisee and an operator," WOWorks CEO Kelly Roddy said in a company press release. "James will be a game changer for us, helping to identify high-quality franchise partners to drive our growth, while Nolan's operational expertise will ensure we deliver excellence to our guests every day. Together, they provide a powerful foundation for franchisee success and long-term growth."

James Walker: Driving growth

As CGO, Walker will oversee franchise growth initiatives across the portfolio, focusing on strategic market expansion and franchise recruitment.

With over 30 years of hospitality and retail leadership experience, Walker has held senior executive positions with renowned brands, including Nathan's Famous, Baja Fresh, Cinnabon, and Subway. During his tenure as North American vice president for Subway, he managed a network of approximately 28,000 restaurants while advancing key initiatives in delivery, brand positioning and operational growth. Most recently, he served as CEO of Lunchbox.

Nolan Woods: Strengthening operations

Woods will lead operations and training initiatives across all WOWorks brands, with a focus on franchise operations, company operations, training and development and guest service. As an existing franchisee, Woods uniquely understands the challenges and opportunities faced by franchise partners, making his insights invaluable to the organization, Roddy said. He brings executive experience from McDonald's, where he honed his skills in operational excellence.

Currently serving as senior vice president of operations at WOWorks, Woods oversees these critical areas, ensuring that WOWorks delivers exceptional experiences to its customers. His experience includes leading large-scale franchise growth initiatives and executing major acquisition transitions, along with developing hospitality concepts in key markets. Notably, Woods distinguished himself early in his career as the youngest general manager in the Panera franchise system, overseeing its highest-volume location within his franchise system.

"Franchise development and franchisee success remain central to our growth strategy," Roddy said. "James brings unmatched experience in franchise sales and market expansion, while Nolan's dual perspective as both an operator and a franchisee will enhance restaurant performance and franchise support across all six WOWorks brands."

With nearly 240 restaurants operating nationwide, WOWorks is seeking experienced franchisees to help expand.