Sonic Drive-In Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Sonic Drive-In is dedicated to providing a unique fast-food experience, focusing on quality, convenience, and customer satisfaction across its extensive network.

Leadership Roles at Sonic Drive-In

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ken Bowen
  • Sonic Data Solutions Inc Chief Executive Officer & Founder - Donny Stillwell
  • Amp President & Chief Executive Officer - Jerome Conway
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - John Toby
  • Chief Financial Officer - Sambor Baraba
  • Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President - Stephen Vaughan
  • Chief Operating Officer - Tim Griggs
  • President - Shiraz Sutar
  • 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 and operational execution. Bowen's leadership focuses on driving sustainable growth and enhancing market presence for the American drive-in fast-food chain. This executive role involves aligning all departmental objectives with the company's mission to deliver exceptional customer experiences and maintain operational excellence across all locations. Bowen oversees the strategic planning process, ensuring that Sonic Drive-In adapts to evolving market demands and consumer preferences. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency throughout the organization, directly impacting the brand's competitive positioning. Ken Bowen's strategic vision guides the company's expansion efforts and reinforces its commitment to quality and service.

    Donny Stillwell - Sonic Data Solutions Inc Chief Executive Officer & Founder

    Donny Stillwell, the Sonic Data Solutions Inc Chief Executive Officer & Founder at Sonic Drive-In, spearheads the strategic direction and foundational principles of the company's data solutions. Stillwell's role emphasizes pioneering innovative approaches to data management and utilization, directly supporting the operational efficiency and customer engagement strategies of the fast-food chain. As the founder, this executive brings a unique perspective to leveraging technology for business advantage. The Chief Executive Officer & Founder's initiatives are critical for developing advanced analytics and data-driven insights that inform business decisions across the organization. Donny Stillwell's vision for data solutions aims to optimize service delivery and personalize customer interactions, reinforcing Sonic Drive-In's commitment to technological advancement and market leadership. This leadership position is pivotal in shaping the future of data integration within the hospitality sector.

    Jerome Conway - Amp President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jerome Conway, the Amp President & Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, commands the strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Amp division. Conway's executive mandate centers on driving growth and innovation within this specific business unit, ensuring its alignment with the broader Sonic Drive-In objectives. As President & Chief Executive Officer, this leader is responsible for setting ambitious goals and executing plans that enhance market share and operational performance. Conway's focus includes fostering strategic partnerships and optimizing resource allocation to maximize the division's impact. The leadership of Jerome Conway is instrumental in advancing the company's strategic initiatives and ensuring the Amp division contributes significantly to overall corporate success. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and a proactive approach to business development.

    John Toby - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    John Toby, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Sonic Drive-In, shares executive leadership responsibilities, focusing on strategic initiatives and operational alignment. Toby's role involves collaborating with other senior leaders to define and execute the company's long-term vision, ensuring robust growth and sustained profitability for the fast-food chain. As Co-Chief Executive Officer, this executive contributes to critical decision-making processes that shape the brand's direction and market positioning. John Toby's leadership emphasizes driving operational efficiencies and enhancing the customer experience across all touchpoints. This position requires a deep understanding of the hospitality industry and a commitment to fostering a high-performance culture. The collaborative leadership approach ensures comprehensive oversight and strategic execution.

    Sambor Baraba - Chief Financial Officer

    Sambor Baraba, the Chief Financial Officer at Sonic Drive-In, oversees the company's financial operations, including accounting, financial planning, and risk management. Baraba's executive leadership ensures the fiscal health and stability of the organization, guiding strategic financial decisions to support growth and profitability. This role is critical for managing capital allocation, investor relations, and financial reporting to stakeholders. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to developing financial strategies that align with the company's long-term objectives and market position. Sambor Baraba plays a key part in analyzing financial performance, identifying opportunities for cost savings, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. This position is fundamental to maintaining financial integrity and driving shareholder value.

    Stephen Vaughan - Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President

    Stephen Vaughan, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President at Sonic Drive-In, directs comprehensive financial strategies and oversees key executive functions. Vaughan's leadership encompasses financial planning, analysis, and reporting, ensuring the company's fiscal integrity and driving profitable growth. As Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President, this executive plays a pivotal role in capital management, investment strategy, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders. Stephen Vaughan's responsibilities include optimizing financial performance, mitigating risks, and ensuring adherence to all regulatory requirements. This dual role highlights a broad scope of influence over both financial operations and broader corporate strategy, contributing significantly to the company's overall success and market standing.

    Tim Griggs - Chief Operating Officer

    Tim Griggs, the Chief Operating Officer at Sonic Drive-In, directs the day-to-day operational activities and ensures the efficient functioning of all restaurant locations. Griggs' executive responsibilities encompass overseeing supply chain management, quality control, and service standards across the extensive drive-in network. This leadership role is critical for maintaining the brand's reputation for speed, convenience, and quality. The Chief Operating Officer's focus includes implementing operational improvements and driving efficiencies to support the company's growth objectives. Tim Griggs works closely with regional managers to ensure consistent execution of brand standards and to address operational challenges proactively. This position is vital for optimizing the customer experience and ensuring profitability at the unit level.

    Shiraz Sutar - President

    Shiraz Sutar, the President at Sonic Drive-In, leads strategic initiatives and oversees key business operations to drive company growth and market presence. Sutar's executive role involves setting the direction for various departments, ensuring alignment with the overall corporate vision and mission. As President, this leader is instrumental in fostering innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening the brand's competitive position within the fast-food industry. Shiraz Sutar's leadership focuses on maximizing profitability and expanding market reach through strategic planning and execution. This position requires a deep understanding of the hospitality sector and a commitment to delivering exceptional value to customers and stakeholders. The President's guidance is crucial for navigating market dynamics and achieving long-term business objectives.

    Joseph Bean - Chief Technology Officer

    Joseph Bean, the Chief Technology Officer at Sonic Drive-In, leads the company's technology strategy and infrastructure development. Bean's executive mandate involves overseeing all aspects of information technology, including digital transformation initiatives, data security, and system integration to support business operations. This role is crucial for enhancing the customer experience through innovative digital platforms and ensuring operational efficiency through robust technological solutions. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include managing the IT department, driving technological innovation, and ensuring that technology investments align with Sonic Drive-In's strategic goals. Joseph Bean's leadership ensures the company remains competitive by leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve service delivery and operational performance. This position is key to driving digital advancements within the organization.

    Paul Dorn - Chief Operations Officer

    Paul Dorn, the Chief Operations Officer at Sonic Drive-In, manages the operational framework and execution across the restaurant network. Dorn's executive focus is on enhancing operational efficiency, standardizing service delivery, and ensuring the consistent quality of products offered at all locations. This leadership position is vital for optimizing the supply chain, managing inventory, and implementing best practices in restaurant management. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities include driving initiatives that improve customer satisfaction and operational profitability. Paul Dorn works to streamline processes and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the operations team. This role is essential for maintaining the high standards expected by Sonic Drive-In customers and for supporting the company's expansion goals.

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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 Ken Bowen (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Donny Stillwell (Sonic Data Solutions Inc Chief Executive Officer & Founder) 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 Ken Bowen (Chief Executive Officer), Donny Stillwell (Sonic Data Solutions Inc Chief Executive Officer & Founder), 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, Sonic Data Solutions Inc Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Amp President & Chief Executive Officer, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer.