Sonic Drive-In Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sonic Drive-In has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to innovation and customer experience, Sonic Drive-In operates as a leading American drive-in fast-food chain, focusing on delivering unique menu items and a nostalgic dining atmosphere across its extensive network.

Leadership Roles at Sonic Drive-In

  • Chief Executive Officer - David Schwartz
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - John Toby
  • Amp President & Chief Executive Officer - Jerome Conway
  • Chief Financial Officer - Sambor Baraba
  • Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President - Stephen Vaughan
  • Chief Operating Officer - Tim Griggs
  • President - Shiraz Sutar
  • Merritt Group President - Barbara Stammer
  • Chief Technology Officer - Joseph Bean
  • Chief Operations Officer - Paul Dorn
  • David Schwartz - Chief Executive Officer

    David Schwartz, the Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term vision for the fast-food chain. Overseeing all major business units, the Chief Executive Officer ensures operational efficiency and market competitiveness. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and maintaining the brand's unique drive-in identity. By focusing on strategic partnerships and market expansion, David Schwartz directly influences the company's financial performance and operational scalability. Ultimately, Schwartz secures the company's position as a leader in the hospitality sector, aligning all departments with core business objectives and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.

    John Toby - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    John Toby, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, collaborates with the Chief Executive Officer to shape and execute the company's strategic direction. This executive manages key operational frameworks and drives initiatives that enhance customer engagement and brand loyalty. The Co-Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include overseeing cross-functional team alignment and ensuring that operational strategies support the company's growth objectives. By championing innovation in service delivery and product development, John Toby contributes significantly to the brand's market presence. This role is critical in navigating the competitive landscape of the fast-food industry, ensuring sustained profitability and operational excellence across all Sonic Drive-In locations.

    Jerome Conway - Amp President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jerome Conway, the Amp President & Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, spearheads the strategic development and operational execution for specific business segments within the organization. This executive directs initiatives focused on enhancing the unique drive-in experience and expanding market reach. The Amp President & Chief Executive Officer's purview includes optimizing operational workflows and driving innovation in product offerings and service delivery. By fostering strong relationships with franchise partners and stakeholders, Jerome Conway ensures consistent brand representation and operational standards across diverse markets. This leadership position is vital for driving revenue growth and solidifying Sonic Drive-In's competitive advantage through targeted strategic planning and execution.

    Sambor Baraba - Chief Financial Officer

    Sambor Baraba, the Chief Financial Officer at Sonic Drive-In, manages the company's financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. This executive oversees all fiscal activities, ensuring financial health and strategic resource allocation. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities encompass managing investments, analyzing financial performance, and developing strategies to enhance profitability and shareholder value. By providing critical financial insights and guidance, Sambor Baraba supports informed decision-making across all business functions. This leadership role is fundamental to maintaining financial stability and driving sustainable growth for the Sonic Drive-In brand.

    Stephen Vaughan - Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President

    Stephen Vaughan, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President at Sonic Drive-In, holds dual responsibility for the company's financial health and strategic executive leadership. This executive directs financial planning, capital management, and investor relations, while also contributing to broader corporate strategy. The Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President's role involves ensuring fiscal discipline, optimizing financial performance, and supporting growth initiatives through sound financial stewardship. By integrating financial oversight with executive decision-making, Stephen Vaughan plays a pivotal part in driving the company's long-term success and market positioning. This comprehensive leadership ensures robust financial management and strategic alignment across the organization.

    Tim Griggs - Chief Operating Officer

    Tim Griggs, the Chief Operating Officer at Sonic Drive-In, oversees the day-to-day operational functions and ensures the efficient execution of business strategies across all restaurant locations. This executive manages the operational infrastructure, focusing on optimizing supply chain logistics and maintaining high standards of service quality. The Chief Operating Officer's role involves driving operational improvements, implementing best practices, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. By enhancing operational workflows and supporting franchise partners, Tim Griggs directly impacts the company's ability to deliver a consistent and positive customer experience. This leadership is crucial for maintaining brand integrity and achieving operational excellence throughout the extensive Sonic Drive-In network.

    Shiraz Sutar - President

    Shiraz Sutar, the President at Sonic Drive-In, leads key strategic initiatives and oversees critical business operations to drive company growth and market presence. This executive focuses on enhancing brand value and expanding the company's reach within the competitive fast-food landscape. The President's responsibilities include fostering innovation in product development and service delivery, ensuring alignment with the company's core mission. By championing strategic partnerships and operational excellence, Shiraz Sutar significantly contributes to the sustained success and market leadership of Sonic Drive-In. This role is vital for guiding the company through evolving market dynamics and achieving long-term objectives.

    Barbara Stammer - Merritt Group President

    Barbara Stammer, the Merritt Group President at Sonic Drive-In, directs strategic operations and business development for the Merritt Group division. This executive focuses on enhancing the group's market position and driving revenue growth through targeted initiatives. The Merritt Group President's responsibilities include overseeing operational efficiency, fostering innovation within the group, and ensuring alignment with Sonic Drive-In's broader corporate objectives. By leading key strategic projects and managing stakeholder relationships, Barbara Stammer significantly contributes to the success and expansion of the Merritt Group's operations. This leadership is crucial for achieving specific business goals and strengthening the division's contribution to the overall company.

    Joseph Bean - Chief Technology Officer

    Joseph Bean, the Chief Technology Officer at Sonic Drive-In, directs the company's technology strategy and oversees the implementation of innovative digital solutions. This executive manages the development and deployment of IT infrastructure, ensuring robust systems that support operational efficiency and customer engagement. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include driving technological advancements in areas such as point-of-sale systems, mobile ordering platforms, and data analytics. By leveraging technology to enhance the drive-in experience and streamline business processes, Joseph Bean significantly contributes to the company's competitive edge. This role is essential for maintaining a modern, efficient, and customer-centric operational framework for Sonic Drive-In.

    Paul Dorn - Chief Operations Officer

    Paul Dorn, the Chief Operations Officer at Sonic Drive-In, directs the operational execution and efficiency across the company's extensive network of drive-in restaurants. This executive focuses on optimizing service delivery, managing supply chain logistics, and ensuring adherence to operational standards. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities include implementing process improvements, driving operational excellence, and supporting franchise partners in achieving business objectives. By enhancing operational workflows and maintaining high service quality, Paul Dorn directly contributes to the consistent customer experience that defines the Sonic Drive-In brand. This leadership is critical for maintaining brand integrity and achieving scalable growth.

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

    Who leads Sonic Drive-In?
    Sonic Drive-In is led by David Schwartz (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as John Toby (Co-Chief Executive Officer) and Jerome Conway (Amp President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Sonic Drive-In’s executive team?
    The executive team of Sonic Drive-In includes leaders such as David Schwartz (Chief Executive Officer), John Toby (Co-Chief Executive Officer), Jerome Conway (Amp President & 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, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Amp President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President.