Noodles & Company Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Noodles & Company has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, marketing, and board governance.

Driven by a commitment to culinary innovation, Noodles & Company delivers a unique fast-casual dining experience, focusing on diverse noodle-based dishes and fostering a culture of operational excellence across its national footprint.

Leadership Roles at Noodles & Company

  • Chief Executive Officer - Thomas Shepard
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Joseph Christina
  • Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Fabien Feintrenie
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Hynes
  • President & Chief Operating Officer & Member of The Board of Directors - Keith Kinsey
  • President - Emily Anderson
  • Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional - Dwayne Chambers
  • Thomas Shepard - Chief Executive Officer

    Thomas Shepard, the Chief Executive Officer at Noodles & Company, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution. Shepard guides the company's expansion initiatives and ensures alignment with market demands for its diverse menu of American and International noodle dishes. This leadership role involves optimizing the restaurant experience, from kitchen efficiency to customer service, directly impacting revenue streams and brand perception. Shepard's focus remains on driving sustainable growth and enhancing shareholder value through strategic decision-making. The Chief Executive Officer oversees all departments, ensuring cohesive operations that support the company's mission of providing flavorful, convenient meals. Thomas Shepard's vision shapes the future direction of Noodles & Company, solidifying its position in the competitive fast-casual dining sector.
    Thomas Shepard

    Joseph Christina - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Joseph Christina, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Noodles & Company, spearheads the company's strategic vision and daily operations. Christina's leadership ensures the seamless execution of business plans, driving growth across all restaurant locations. This role involves fostering a strong corporate culture and overseeing the development and implementation of menu innovations, such as Wisconsin mac & cheese and other popular pasta dishes. Christina works to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, directly contributing to the company's market presence. The President & Chief Executive Officer is responsible for managing key stakeholder relationships and guiding the organization toward its long-term objectives. Joseph Christina's executive oversight ensures that Noodles & Company continues to deliver on its promise of quality and convenience in the hospitality industry.

    Fabien Feintrenie - Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Fabien Feintrenie, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Noodles & Company, established the foundational principles of the company's unique fast-casual dining concept. Feintrenie's ongoing leadership guides strategic development and cultivates the brand's distinctive approach to serving American and International noodle dishes. This executive position involves overseeing the company's long-term vision, ensuring that the core mission of providing innovative and delicious food options remains paramount. Feintrenie's influence extends to shaping the company culture and driving initiatives that enhance the customer dining experience. The Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer plays a critical part in maintaining the brand's identity and market differentiation. Fabien Feintrenie's entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire the company's growth and commitment to culinary excellence.

    Michael Hynes - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Hynes, the Chief Financial Officer at Noodles & Company, directs all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Hynes manages the company's financial health, overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation to support growth initiatives and operational efficiency. This critical role involves analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. The Chief Financial Officer provides essential financial insights to guide executive decision-making, particularly concerning menu development, expansion strategies, and market penetration. Michael Hynes's expertise is vital in maintaining the company's profitability and securing its financial stability across its national restaurant network. Hynes ensures robust financial controls are in place to support the company's ambitious objectives.
    Michael Hynes

    Keith Kinsey - President & Chief Operating Officer & Member of The Board of Directors

    Keith Kinsey, the President & Chief Operating Officer & Member of The Board of Directors at Noodles & Company, drives operational excellence across the entire restaurant portfolio. Kinsey oversees day-to-day business activities, ensuring efficient service delivery and consistent quality of menu items like pasta, soups, and salads. This executive leadership position involves optimizing supply chain management, enhancing in-restaurant operations, and implementing strategies to improve customer satisfaction. Kinsey collaborates closely with other C-suite leaders to align operational execution with the company's strategic goals. The President & Chief Operating Officer & Member of The Board of Directors plays a key part in scaling the business and maintaining high standards nationwide. Keith Kinsey's operational acumen is fundamental to the company's success and its ability to serve a broad customer base.

    Emily Anderson - President

    Emily Anderson, the President at Noodles & Company, leads key strategic initiatives and operational oversight for the company. Anderson focuses on driving business growth and enhancing the overall customer experience across all locations. This executive role involves collaborating with various departments to ensure seamless execution of company objectives, from menu innovation to service delivery. The President works to foster a culture of excellence and innovation, supporting the company's mission to provide a unique fast-casual dining experience. Emily Anderson's leadership is instrumental in guiding the company's strategic direction and operational efficiency, ensuring sustained success in the competitive hospitality market. Anderson's purview includes optimizing performance and expanding the brand's national presence.

    Dwayne Chambers - Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional

    Dwayne Chambers, the Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional at Noodles & Company, directs strategic marketing initiatives and brand development. Chambers oversees the creation and execution of campaigns designed to enhance customer engagement and expand market reach for the company's diverse menu offerings. This role involves leveraging market insights to refine brand messaging and identify new opportunities for growth across various demographics. The Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional works to strengthen the Noodles & Company brand identity, ensuring it resonates with consumers seeking convenient and flavorful dining options. Dwayne Chambers's fractional leadership provides specialized expertise to drive impactful marketing strategies, contributing to increased brand awareness and customer loyalty.

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

    Who leads Noodles & Company?
    Noodles & Company is led by Thomas Shepard (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Joseph Christina (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Fabien Feintrenie (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Noodles & Company’s executive team?
    The executive team of Noodles & Company includes leaders such as Thomas Shepard (Chief Executive Officer), Joseph Christina (President & Chief Executive Officer), Fabien Feintrenie (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Noodles & Company have?
    Noodles & Company has 7 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, President & Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer & Member of The Board of Directors.