Checkers & Rally's Executive and Leadership Team

Islam Sbaih, the Chief Marketing Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Finance & Admin at Checkers & Rally's, architects the brand identity and operational framework. Overseeing the integration of marketing campaigns with daily restaurant performance, the Chief Marketing Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Finance & Admin ensures that promotional efforts drive consistent traffic to the drive-thru lanes. This multifaceted leadership role involves refining administrative protocols and streamlining internal processes to support rapid service delivery. By aligning marketing initiatives with operational capabilities, Islam Sbaih maximizes the impact of signature menu launches and seasonal promotions. The Chief Marketing Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Finance & Admin manages cross-functional teams to ensure that every customer interaction reflects the brand promise of bold taste and speed. Sbaih drives organizational excellence by balancing administrative rigor with creative market positioning.

Michael Blair, the Chief Financial Officer at Checkers & Rally's, directs all fiscal planning and capital allocation strategies. Overseeing the financial health of the organization, the Chief Financial Officer ensures robust budgeting processes support the expansion of the iconic fast-food brand. This leadership role involves managing complex revenue streams and optimizing cost structures to maintain the competitive pricing model synonymous with the company. By analyzing market trends and operational expenditures, Michael Blair directly impacts the long-term profitability and growth trajectory of the business. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to secure the resources necessary for scaling operations across North American markets. Through rigorous financial oversight, Blair strengthens the balance sheet, enabling the company to continue delivering signature items like the Big Buford and Famous Seasoned Fries to millions of loyal customers while maintaining operational efficiency.

Richard Hewatt, the President at Checkers & Rally's, provides the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Overseeing the alignment of all departments with the core mission of delivering superior fast food, the President guides the executive team toward sustainable growth and market leadership. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation that keeps the menu relevant and the service model competitive within the quick-service industry. By setting long-term objectives and monitoring performance metrics, Richard Hewatt ensures that the company remains a dominant force in the restaurant sector. The President engages with stakeholders to communicate the brand value and drive expansion initiatives across diverse geographic regions. Through decisive leadership and a focus on operational excellence, Hewatt empowers the entire organization to maintain the high standards required to serve millions of fans who crave the bold taste and satisfying food offered by the brand.

Saleem Lakhani, the Chief Operations Officer at Checkers & Rally's, directs the execution of service standards across the entire restaurant network. Overseeing the daily performance of thousands of locations, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that the preparation of signature items like Baconzilla and Classic Wings meets strict quality benchmarks. This leadership role involves optimizing supply chain logistics and labor management to maintain the fast, friendly service model that defines the brand. By implementing standardized operational procedures, Saleem Lakhani drives consistency in food quality and customer satisfaction throughout the national footprint. The Chief Operations Officer collaborates with regional managers to troubleshoot bottlenecks and enhance throughput in high-volume drive-thru environments. Through continuous process improvement, Lakhani supports the company mission of providing crave-worthy food with maximum efficiency, ensuring that every meal served aligns with the high standards expected by fans of the brand.