DENVER — Fast-casual burger brand Smashburger announced that it recently appointed Jim Sullivan as chief development officer.

“I’m honored to join Smashburger’s leadership team and work closely with our dedicated team members and franchisees to foster a culture of continuous growth and development,” Sullivan said. “Smashburger’s commitment to culinary innovation is truly inspiring, and I’m excited to lead the brand’s expansion initiatives while elevating the guest experience.”

Sullivan will oversee restaurant development, including market planning, site selection and franchise sales, with a strategic focus on elevating Smashburger’s brand.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jim Sullivan as Smashburger’s new chief development officer,” said Denise Nelsen, chief executive officer of Smashburger. “Jim brings unparalleled expertise, passion and a deep understanding of the fast-casual industry that will be instrumental in driving our ambitious expansion plans both domestically and internationally. His leadership and vision will be game changers for our brand, and we are excited to see how he will elevate Smashburger to new heights and solidify our position as a household name.”

Before joining Smashburger in June, Sullivan served as chief development officer at Qdoba where he led global expansion and new restaurant development.

Other positions that Sullivan has held during his 25 years of food and beverage business experience include development leadership roles at CKE Restaurant Holdings, Friendly’s Ice Cream and American Hospitality Concepts where he further developed his expertise in real estate, franchise development and site acquisition management.

Smashburger operates 235 corporate and franchise restaurants in 32 states and six countries.