LAKE FOREST, CALIF. — Johnny Rockets recently appointed Carl Arena senior vice-president of development to help continue the company’s aggressive growth plan.

Previously serving as executive director of development of Johnny Rockets, he will work closely with new chief executive officer John Fuller and the heads of international and domestic franchising to develop strategic growth plans for the global restaurant chain.

Mr. Arena will oversee the development team and spearhead all real estate projects, from scouting new locations to managing the launch of store openings. Johnny Rockets is expected to launch an additional 30 to 40 franchise locations in 2010, including three new concepts: sports lounges, mobile kitchens and its new FAST! model.

Mr. Arena previously served as director of real estate development for Catalina Restaurant Group in Carlsbad, Calif. where he was responsible for new store development and asset management for the Coco's and Carrows restaurant chains. He also served in senior development positions with Rubio's Restaurants Inc. where he was vice-president of development, and at CKE Restaurants Inc. serving as vice-president of real estate for CKE's Carl's Jr. chain.