Culver's Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Culver's has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, and organizational leadership.

Focused on delivering high-quality hospitality, Culver's maintains a commitment to fresh, made-to-order meals while fostering a culture of genuine care for guests and team members across the Midwestern United States.

Leadership Roles at Culver's

  • Chief Executive Officer - Julie Fussner
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rich Modjeski
  • President - Dawn Wayman
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Nick Gallo
  • Julie Fussner - Chief Executive Officer

    Julie Fussner, the Chief Executive Officer at Culver's, directs the overarching strategic vision for the restaurant chain. By prioritizing the expansion of the brand across the Midwestern United States, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent growth and operational excellence. Fussner architects long-term business plans that align with the core mission of providing high-quality, made-to-order food. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to maintain the private ownership model while scaling the footprint of the organization. Through rigorous oversight of market trends and consumer preferences, the Chief Executive Officer drives the competitive positioning of the company. Julie Fussner maintains a focus on sustainable development and brand integrity. By fostering a culture of hospitality, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the business, ensuring that every restaurant location upholds the standards established since the inception of the brand in 1984.
    Julie Fussner

    Rich Modjeski - Chief Operating Officer

    Rich Modjeski, the Chief Operating Officer at Culver's, manages the daily operational efficiency of the restaurant chain. Overseeing the supply chain logistics and kitchen workflows, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every location maintains the high standards of food quality expected by guests. Modjeski directs the implementation of new technology to streamline service speed across the Midwestern United States. This leadership role requires constant coordination with regional managers to optimize inventory management and reduce waste. By refining operational protocols, the Chief Operating Officer improves profitability and guest satisfaction. Rich Modjeski monitors performance metrics to identify areas for improvement in service delivery. Through the application of data-driven insights, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the consistency of the dining experience. Modjeski maintains a focus on operational scalability, ensuring that the infrastructure supports the continued growth of the brand while preserving the unique, made-to-order service model.

    Dawn Wayman - President

    Dawn Wayman, the President at Culver's, executes the tactical initiatives that support the long-term growth of the restaurant chain. Overseeing the integration of marketing and operational goals, the President ensures that the brand message remains consistent across the Midwestern United States. Wayman directs the development of new menu offerings and promotional campaigns that resonate with the core customer base. This leadership role involves managing the relationship between the corporate office and the franchise network to ensure alignment with the mission of the company. By analyzing market performance, the President identifies opportunities for regional expansion and brand enhancement. Dawn Wayman collaborates with the Chief Executive Officer to refine the business model and adapt to changing consumer demands. Through the oversight of cross-functional teams, the President drives the execution of strategic projects that improve the overall market impact of the organization, ensuring that the brand remains a leader in the casual fast food industry.

    Nick Gallo - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Nick Gallo, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Culver's, architects the talent acquisition and employee development strategies for the organization. Overseeing the recruitment of thousands of team members across the Midwestern United States, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce embodies the values of hospitality and service. Gallo directs the design of training programs that prepare staff to deliver the signature made-to-order experience. This leadership role involves managing complex labor relations and fostering a positive workplace culture that reduces turnover. By implementing competitive compensation structures and career advancement pathways, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives employee retention. Nick Gallo collaborates with other C-suite leaders to align human capital strategies with the broader business objectives of the company. Through the promotion of inclusive hiring practices, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the organizational foundation, ensuring that the brand attracts and retains top-tier talent capable of maintaining the high standards of the restaurant chain.

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

    Who leads Culver's?
    Culver's is led by Julie Fussner (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Rich Modjeski (Chief Operating Officer) and Dawn Wayman (President).
    Who is part of Culver's’s executive team?
    The executive team of Culver's includes leaders such as Julie Fussner (Chief Executive Officer), Rich Modjeski (Chief Operating Officer), Dawn Wayman (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Culver's have?
    Culver's has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Culver's’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Culver's includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief Human Resources Officer.