Sonic Drive-In Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sonic Drive-In has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, operational excellence, and technological innovation.

Committed to delivering unique dining experiences, Sonic Drive-In maintains a legacy of quality service while driving modern growth across the competitive American fast-food landscape.

Leadership Roles at Sonic Drive-In

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ken Bowen
  • Amp President & Chief Executive Officer - Jerome Conway
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - John Toby
  • Chief Financial Officer - Kerry Mcconathy
  • Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President - Stephen Vaughan
  • Chief Operating Officer - Tim Griggs
  • President - Michael Bonnet
  • President - Claudia San Pedro
  • Chief Technology Officer - Joseph Bean
  • Chief Operations Officer - Paul Dorn
  • Ken Bowen - Chief Executive Officer

    Ken Bowen, the Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, directs the overarching corporate strategy for the national restaurant chain. Bowen architects long-term growth initiatives while overseeing the alignment of regional market expansion with the core brand identity established in 1953. By coordinating with the board and senior leadership, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent performance across the vast network of drive-in locations. This leadership role involves analyzing consumer trends to refine the menu and service model, thereby maintaining a competitive edge in the hospitality sector. Ken Bowen directly influences the organizational culture, fostering a commitment to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Through rigorous oversight of national performance metrics, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health and market relevance of the brand, ensuring that every strategic decision supports the long-term vision of the company.

    Jerome Conway - Amp President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jerome Conway, the Amp President & Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, manages the specialized Amp division to accelerate brand modernization. Conway drives the integration of new service technologies and menu innovations designed to enhance the customer experience at drive-in locations. Overseeing the strategic deployment of resources, the Amp President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that operational improvements align with the broader corporate mission of the restaurant chain. This role requires constant collaboration with regional managers to optimize service speed and quality across diverse markets. Jerome Conway monitors key performance indicators to validate the success of new initiatives, adjusting tactics to maximize profitability. By focusing on the intersection of traditional drive-in culture and contemporary consumer demands, the Amp President & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the market position of the company, ensuring sustained growth and operational excellence.

    John Toby - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    John Toby, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, shares responsibility for the strategic direction and operational success of the restaurant chain. Toby focuses on scaling the business model while maintaining the high standards of service synonymous with the brand. By managing cross-functional teams, the Co-Chief Executive Officer ensures that marketing, supply chain, and human resources departments operate in harmony to support national objectives. John Toby evaluates market opportunities to expand the footprint of the company, driving initiatives that increase revenue and brand loyalty. This leadership position involves navigating complex industry challenges, from supply chain logistics to evolving dining preferences. Through proactive engagement with stakeholders, the Co-Chief Executive Officer maintains the stability and growth trajectory of the organization, ensuring that every operational facet contributes to the overarching success of the business.

    Kerry Mcconathy - Chief Financial Officer

    Kerry Mcconathy, the Chief Financial Officer at Sonic Drive-In, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the restaurant chain. Mcconathy oversees financial planning, budgeting, and reporting processes to ensure transparency and long-term sustainability. By analyzing economic data and market trends, the Chief Financial Officer provides the insights necessary for informed decision-making regarding expansion and investment. Kerry Mcconathy directs the financial operations that support the daily functions of the drive-in network, ensuring that resources are distributed effectively to maximize returns. This role involves maintaining strong relationships with investors and financial institutions to secure the capital required for future growth. Through rigorous oversight of the balance sheet and cash flow management, the Chief Financial Officer protects the assets of the company and supports the strategic goals of the executive team, ensuring consistent financial performance.

    Stephen Vaughan - Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President

    Stephen Vaughan, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President at Sonic Drive-In, manages the long-term financial strategy and corporate governance of the restaurant chain. Vaughan oversees the development of financial models that support large-scale expansion and capital projects. By directing the treasury and risk management functions, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President ensures the stability of the company in a volatile market. Stephen Vaughan works closely with the board to communicate financial performance and strategic objectives to stakeholders. This role involves evaluating the financial viability of new menu items and service concepts, ensuring that innovation aligns with profitability. Through the strategic management of corporate assets and liabilities, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President secures the financial future of the organization, providing the foundation for sustained growth and market leadership.

    Tim Griggs - Chief Operating Officer

    Tim Griggs, the Chief Operating Officer at Sonic Drive-In, directs the day-to-day operations of the restaurant chain with a focus on internal scaling and process optimization. Griggs architects the workflows that govern service delivery, ensuring that every drive-in location maintains consistent quality and speed. By overseeing the implementation of operational standards, the Chief Operating Officer drives efficiency across the entire network. Tim Griggs monitors performance metrics to identify areas for improvement, implementing training programs and resource management strategies that enhance productivity. This leadership role involves coordinating with regional directors to ensure that corporate policies are executed effectively at the local level. Through the continuous refinement of operational procedures, the Chief Operating Officer supports the growth of the company, ensuring that the business remains agile and responsive to the needs of customers in every market.

    Michael Bonnet - President

    Michael Bonnet, the President at Sonic Drive-In, oversees the brand marketing and customer experience initiatives for the restaurant chain. Bonnet directs the creative strategy and promotional campaigns that drive traffic to drive-in locations. By analyzing consumer behavior, the President develops marketing programs that resonate with diverse demographics across the country. Michael Bonnet collaborates with regional teams to ensure that brand messaging is consistent and impactful. This leadership role involves managing the public image of the company and fostering community engagement. Through the development of innovative marketing strategies, the President drives brand awareness and customer loyalty, contributing to the overall growth of the business. By focusing on the unique value proposition of the brand, Bonnet ensures that the company maintains a strong and positive presence in the competitive fast-food industry.
    Michael Bonnet

    Claudia San Pedro - President

    Claudia San Pedro, the President at Sonic Drive-In, manages the human resources and organizational development functions for the restaurant chain. San Pedro directs the talent acquisition and retention strategies that ensure a high-performing workforce across all locations. By overseeing training and leadership development programs, the President fosters a culture of excellence and service. Claudia San Pedro works to align the workforce with the strategic goals of the company, ensuring that employees are equipped to deliver the signature experience of the brand. This role involves managing labor relations and ensuring compliance with employment regulations. Through the implementation of effective human capital strategies, the President supports the operational success of the business, ensuring that the organization attracts and retains the talent necessary to drive growth and maintain high standards of service.

    Joseph Bean - Chief Technology Officer

    Joseph Bean, the Chief Technology Officer at Sonic Drive-In, leads the digital transformation and technological infrastructure of the restaurant chain. Bean architects the systems that power mobile ordering, payment processing, and customer engagement platforms. By integrating advanced software solutions, the Chief Technology Officer enhances the convenience and speed of the drive-in experience. Joseph Bean oversees the cybersecurity and data management protocols necessary to protect the information of the company and its customers. This role involves collaborating with other executives to align technological investments with the broader business strategy. Through the deployment of innovative digital tools, the Chief Technology Officer drives operational efficiency and creates new avenues for revenue growth. By staying at the forefront of industry technology, the leadership of Bean ensures that the brand remains relevant in an increasingly digital marketplace.

    Paul Dorn - Chief Operations Officer

    Paul Dorn, the Chief Operations Officer at Sonic Drive-In, manages the supply chain logistics and procurement strategies for the restaurant chain. Dorn directs the sourcing of ingredients and equipment, ensuring that the supply network remains robust and cost-effective. By optimizing the distribution channels, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that every location receives the necessary supplies to maintain service standards. Paul Dorn oversees the relationships with vendors and distributors, negotiating contracts that support the financial goals of the company. This role involves analyzing inventory data to reduce waste and improve the efficiency of the supply chain. Through the strategic management of logistics, the Chief Operations Officer supports the operational success of the brand, ensuring that the business can scale effectively while maintaining the quality and consistency that customers expect from the restaurant chain.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Hospitality

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sonic Drive-In Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Sonic Drive-In?
    Sonic Drive-In is led by Ken Bowen (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jerome Conway (Amp President & Chief Executive Officer) and John Toby (Co-Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Sonic Drive-In’s executive team?
    The executive team of Sonic Drive-In includes leaders such as Ken Bowen (Chief Executive Officer), Jerome Conway (Amp President & Chief Executive Officer), John Toby (Co-Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Sonic Drive-In have?
    Sonic Drive-In has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Sonic Drive-In’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Sonic Drive-In includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Amp President & Chief Executive Officer, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President.