BJ's Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

BJ's has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, BJ's operates casual dining restaurants across the United States, offering a diverse menu and a focus on guest experience.

Leadership Roles at BJ's

  • Chief Executive Officer - Lyle Tick
  • Chief Executive Officer & Founder - Benjamin Smith
  • Chief Financial Officer - Hope Pearce
  • Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer - Christopher Pinsak
  • Chief Information Officer - Brian Krakower
  • Lyle Tick - Chief Executive Officer

    Lyle Tick, the Chief Executive Officer at BJ's, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Tick oversees all facets of the business, ensuring alignment with market demands and financial objectives. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and enhancing the dining experience for patrons. By focusing on scalable operational frameworks, Lyle Tick ensures the continued expansion and profitability of BJ's restaurants. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses all departments, guiding them toward unified goals and sustained success in the competitive hospitality sector. Tick's strategic direction shapes the company's market positioning and long-term viability.
    Lyle Tick

    Benjamin Smith - Chief Executive Officer & Founder

    Benjamin Smith, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder at BJ's, established the foundational principles and vision for the company. Smith's ongoing involvement guides strategic decision-making, ensuring the brand's core values remain central to its operations. This leadership position involves championing innovation and maintaining the unique identity of BJ's restaurants. By leveraging extensive industry experience, Benjamin Smith provides critical insights into market trends and consumer preferences. The Chief Executive Officer & Founder's role is pivotal in shaping the company's culture and its approach to expansion. Smith's legacy continues to influence the strategic direction and operational excellence of BJ's.

    Hope Pearce - Chief Financial Officer

    Hope Pearce, the Chief Financial Officer at BJ's, manages all financial aspects of the organization, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Pearce directs the company's fiscal strategy, ensuring robust financial health and sustainable growth. This critical role involves optimizing capital allocation and managing investor relations. By maintaining stringent financial controls, Hope Pearce safeguards the company's assets and enhances shareholder value. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to financial planning and analysis, providing data-driven insights to support executive decisions. Pearce's expertise is fundamental to the company's economic stability and strategic financial planning.

    Christopher Pinsak - Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer

    Christopher Pinsak, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer at BJ's, directs the day-to-day operational activities of the restaurant chain. Pinsak oversees all aspects of restaurant management, supply chain logistics, and operational standards to ensure consistent quality and service delivery. This senior leadership role involves optimizing operational efficiency, driving profitability at the unit level, and implementing best practices across the organization. By focusing on operational excellence, Christopher Pinsak ensures a seamless dining experience for guests and supports the company's expansion efforts. The Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing restaurant teams, enforcing brand standards, and driving operational innovation. Pinsak's leadership is key to maintaining the high standards of BJ's.
    Christopher Pinsak

    Brian Krakower - Chief Information Officer

    Brian Krakower, the Chief Information Officer at BJ's, leads the company's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Krakower oversees the development and implementation of IT infrastructure, ensuring operational efficiency and data security across all platforms. This executive position involves driving innovation in technology to enhance the customer experience and streamline internal processes. By leveraging cutting-edge technology solutions, Brian Krakower supports the company's growth objectives and competitive positioning. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing all aspects of information systems, cybersecurity, and digital platforms. Krakower's vision is integral to the company's technological advancement.
    Brian Krakower

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding BJ's Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads BJ's?
    BJ's is led by Lyle Tick (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Benjamin Smith (Chief Executive Officer & Founder) and Hope Pearce (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of BJ's’s executive team?
    The executive team of BJ's includes leaders such as Lyle Tick (Chief Executive Officer), Benjamin Smith (Chief Executive Officer & Founder), Hope Pearce (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does BJ's have?
    BJ's has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in BJ's’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of BJ's includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Chief Financial Officer, Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer.