Noodles & Company Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Noodles & Company has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, operational execution, and brand marketing.

Focused on delivering diverse global flavors, Noodles & Company maintains a commitment to high-quality fast-casual dining while expanding market reach through consistent menu innovation and operational excellence across the United States.

Leadership Roles at Noodles & Company

  • Chief Executive Officer - Joseph Christina
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Hynes
  • Chief Operating Officer & Partner - Ralph Staelgraeve
  • Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional - Dwayne Chambers
  • Joseph Christina - Chief Executive Officer

    Joseph Christina, the Chief Executive Officer at Noodles & Company, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term growth initiatives for the fast-casual restaurant chain. By prioritizing menu development and customer experience, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the brand remains competitive within the national hospitality landscape. Joseph Christina oversees the alignment of executive leadership teams to drive profitability and operational efficiency across all locations. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends to refine the company's approach to American and international noodle dishes. Through rigorous focus on brand expansion and fiscal health, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the company's position as a leader in the fast-casual sector. Christina fosters a culture of excellence that permeates every level of the organization, ensuring that the strategic vision translates into tangible results for shareholders and guests alike.

    Michael Hynes - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Hynes, the Chief Financial Officer at Noodles & Company, manages the financial architecture and capital allocation strategies for the organization. Overseeing fiscal planning, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the company maintains robust liquidity to support nationwide restaurant operations and supply chain logistics. Michael Hynes directs the budgeting processes and financial reporting, providing the necessary data for informed decision-making by the executive board. This role involves optimizing cost structures related to food procurement and labor to maximize margins on core menu items like Wisconsin mac & cheese. By monitoring economic indicators and market volatility, Hynes secures the financial stability required for sustained growth. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other leaders to evaluate investment opportunities, ensuring that every dollar spent aligns with the broader mission of delivering high-quality, fast-casual dining experiences to customers across the country.
    Michael Hynes

    Ralph Staelgraeve - Chief Operating Officer & Partner

    Ralph Staelgraeve, the Chief Operating Officer & Partner at Noodles & Company, architects the daily operational workflows and service standards across the entire restaurant network. By streamlining kitchen processes and front-of-house efficiency, the Chief Operating Officer & Partner ensures consistent delivery of pasta, soups, and salads in every location. Ralph Staelgraeve monitors regional performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and operational scaling. This leadership role involves managing the complex logistics of a fast-casual model, ensuring that quality control remains high while maintaining speed of service. Staelgraeve drives initiatives that enhance employee productivity and guest satisfaction, directly impacting the company's reputation for excellence. Through meticulous oversight of restaurant operations, the Chief Operating Officer & Partner maintains the integrity of the brand's service model, ensuring that every guest receives the same high-quality experience regardless of the specific geographic location.

    Dwayne Chambers - Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional

    Dwayne Chambers, the Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional at Noodles & Company, designs and executes the brand's promotional strategies and customer engagement campaigns. By analyzing consumer behavior, the Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional drives awareness for the company's diverse menu offerings, including international noodle dishes and seasonal specials. Dwayne Chambers oversees digital marketing channels and loyalty programs to increase customer retention and drive traffic to locations nationwide. This role involves crafting messaging that highlights the unique value proposition of the fast-casual brand in a crowded hospitality market. Chambers collaborates with the executive team to ensure marketing efforts align with broader business objectives and revenue targets. By leveraging data-driven insights, the Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional optimizes advertising spend and brand positioning. Ultimately, Chambers strengthens the market presence of the company, ensuring that the brand remains top-of-mind for consumers seeking high-quality, convenient dining options.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Noodles & Company Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Noodles & Company?
    Noodles & Company is led by Joseph Christina (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michael Hynes (Chief Financial Officer) and Ralph Staelgraeve (Chief Operating Officer & Partner).
    Who is part of Noodles & Company’s executive team?
    The executive team of Noodles & Company includes leaders such as Joseph Christina (Chief Executive Officer), Michael Hynes (Chief Financial Officer), Ralph Staelgraeve (Chief Operating Officer & Partner) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Noodles & Company have?
    Noodles & Company has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Noodles & Company’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Noodles & Company includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Partner, Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional.