Culver's Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Culver's has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, and franchise development.

Driven by a commitment to quality and community, Culver's defines its leadership philosophy through fostering a welcoming environment and delivering exceptional dining experiences across its Midwestern footprint.

Leadership Roles at Culver's

  • Chief Executive Officer - Julie Fussner
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rich Modjeski
  • President - Dawn Wayman
  • President & G Owner & S Viera Operations Llc Culvers In Viera Database Administrator - Gerald Smith
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Nick Gallo
  • Julie Fussner - Chief Executive Officer

    Julie Fussner, the Chief Executive Officer at Culver's, directs the overarching strategy and long-term vision for the casual fast-food restaurant chain. Fussner guides the company's expansion and market positioning, ensuring alignment with its founding principles of quality and community engagement. Overseeing critical strategic initiatives, Julie Fussner drives innovation in menu development and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with franchisees and stakeholders, crucial for maintaining Culver's established brand identity. By focusing on sustainable growth and customer satisfaction, Fussner ensures the continued success and market leadership of Culver's primarily in the Midwestern United States. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to financial oversight and corporate governance, solidifying the company's robust operational framework.
    Julie Fussner

    Rich Modjeski - Chief Operating Officer

    Rich Modjeski, the Chief Operating Officer at Culver's, executes the day-to-day operational strategies that support the company's growth and service standards. Modjeski oversees all aspects of restaurant operations, ensuring consistency and quality across the chain's locations. This involves optimizing supply chain logistics and implementing best practices in food preparation and customer service. Rich Modjeski drives operational excellence by focusing on efficiency and profitability at the unit level. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing operational budgets and resource allocation to maximize performance. By collaborating with franchise partners, Modjeski ensures adherence to Culver's high standards, thereby reinforcing the brand's reputation for delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere. Rich Modjeski's leadership is central to maintaining the seamless functioning of Culver's extensive restaurant network.

    Dawn Wayman - President

    Dawn Wayman, the President at Culver's, spearheads strategic initiatives that enhance the company's market presence and operational capabilities. Wayman directs efforts to expand brand reach and strengthen franchise relationships, ensuring sustained growth and profitability. This leadership position involves overseeing key business development activities and driving innovation in customer engagement strategies. Dawn Wayman champions initiatives that reinforce Culver's commitment to community and quality, integral to its identity. The President's responsibilities encompass guiding the executive team towards achieving ambitious corporate goals and maintaining operational excellence across the restaurant chain. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Wayman ensures Culver's remains a leader in the casual dining sector. Dawn Wayman's vision is instrumental in navigating the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry and solidifying Culver's strong foothold.

    Gerald Smith - President & G Owner & S Viera Operations Llc Culvers In Viera Database Administrator

    Gerald Smith, the President & G Owner & S Viera Operations Llc Culvers In Viera Database Administrator at Culver's, manages the operational and administrative functions for specific franchise entities, ensuring alignment with corporate standards. Smith oversees the database administration and operational execution within the Viera franchise locations, focusing on efficiency and service delivery. This role involves implementing and maintaining systems that support daily restaurant operations and franchise management. Gerald Smith drives performance by ensuring optimal resource utilization and adherence to Culver's established protocols. The President & G Owner & S Viera Operations Llc Culvers In Viera Database Administrator's responsibilities are crucial for the localized success and consistent brand representation of these specific Culver's outlets. By focusing on meticulous operational oversight and administrative precision, Smith contributes to the overall strength and reliability of the Culver's brand. Gerald Smith's dedicated management ensures these franchise operations thrive.

    Nick Gallo - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Nick Gallo, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Culver's, architects the human capital strategy essential for supporting the company's operational and growth objectives. Gallo leads initiatives focused on talent acquisition, employee development, and fostering a positive workplace culture across all Culver's locations. This includes designing comprehensive training programs and implementing effective HR policies that align with the company's values. Nick Gallo drives engagement and retention by ensuring a supportive environment for all team members, from corporate staff to restaurant crews. The Chief Human Resources Officer's role is critical in cultivating the skilled workforce necessary to deliver Culver's signature guest experience. By focusing on employee well-being and professional growth, Gallo strengthens the organizational foundation, enabling Culver's to maintain its strong presence in the Midwestern United States. Nick Gallo's strategic direction in HR is fundamental to the chain's continued success.

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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 5 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, President & G Owner & S Viera Operations Llc Culvers In Viera Database Administrator, Chief Human Resources Officer.