ATLANTA (October 17, 2019) GPS Hospitality, one the nation’s largest franchisees of BURGER KING® and Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen, and Pizza Hut®, today announces the promotion of Carmen Gianguzzo to Vice President of Operations. Previously, Gianguzzo held the position of Director of Operations for the Gulf Coast East team, in which he led operations and strategy for 49 restaurants located in Florida and Alabama.

Gianguzzo will head the company’s recently formed, Gulf Coast Southeast division, where he will oversee in 88 of GPS’ BURGER KING restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi.

“Carmen is a phenomenal developer of people and has been a leader not only to his team, but the entire Gulf Division,” said Michael Lippert, COO for GPS Hospitality. “We know his passion and dedication will serve the new division well, and we cannot wait to see how the teams flourish under his leadership.”

An executive at GPS Hospitality since 2014, Gianguzzo joined the GPS team as a District Leader in Ohio. Following the 2016 major acquisition of 194 BURGER KING restaurants in the Gulf, he was promoted to Director of Operations. Gianguzzo has consistently led his team to achieve top results, and in 2018, he led the company in scorecard results.

“Carmen has proven himself as an GPS champion who showcases our values day-in and day-out,” said GPS Hospitality CEO Tom Garrett. “His people-first mentality is evident in his natural leadership abilities and the successes of his team members. We’re looking forward to seeing his growth continue in this new role.”

A 20-year QSR industry veteran, Gianguzzo previously held the title of Director of Operations at Arby’s prior to joining GPS Hospitality.

“In the past five years, GPS’ growth has been tremendous, and I am honored to have been a part of its expansion into the Gulf,” said Gianguzzo. “I’m excited to lead a team of directors and district leaders to greater achievements in the new Gulf Southeast division.”