Thrive Restaurant Group Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Thrive Restaurant Group has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, brand management, and market expansion.

Driven by a commitment to community, Thrive Restaurant Group focuses on making a positive impact through its diverse dining brands and extensive career opportunities, building on a legacy of over 45 years in the hospitality industry.

Leadership Roles at Thrive Restaurant Group

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jon Rolph
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Derr
  • Chief Operating Officer - Joe Williams
  • President - Gregory Stroud
  • President, Emerging Brands - Robin Robison
  • President - Applebee's, Carlos O' Kellys, and Qdoba - Michael Coffey
  • Market President - Brian Schaetzle
  • Jon Rolph - Chief Executive Officer

    Jon Rolph, the Chief Executive Officer at Thrive Restaurant Group, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational vision for the company's extensive network of over 200 restaurant locations across 18 states. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team in executing initiatives that align with Thrive's mission of making a positive impact on customers and communities. Rolph's strategic direction ensures the continued growth and evolution of the company's diverse brand portfolio, which includes established names like Applebee's and Qdoba, alongside newer concepts. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on fostering a culture of excellence and community engagement throughout the organization, which employs more than 8,000 individuals. By championing innovation and operational efficiency, Jon Rolph solidifies Thrive Restaurant Group's market position and long-term sustainability in the competitive hospitality sector.

    Michael Derr - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Derr, the Chief Financial Officer at Thrive Restaurant Group, manages all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the company's expansive multi-state operations. This critical position involves overseeing budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and capital allocation across more than 200 restaurant locations. The Chief Financial Officer ensures the financial health and stability of Thrive Restaurant Group, supporting its mission of positive community impact and sustained growth. Michael Derr's expertise is vital in navigating the financial complexities of the hospitality industry, driving profitability, and optimizing resource management. By implementing robust financial controls and identifying strategic investment opportunities, Derr directly contributes to the company's ability to expand its reach and enhance its service offerings to customers nationwide. Michael Derr's leadership ensures fiscal discipline across all operational facets.
    Michael Derr

    Joe Williams - Chief Operating Officer

    Joe Williams, the Chief Operating Officer at Thrive Restaurant Group, oversees the day-to-day operational execution across the company's more than 200 restaurant locations spanning 18 states. This role is central to ensuring consistent service delivery, operational efficiency, and adherence to brand standards throughout the extensive network. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing supply chain logistics, optimizing restaurant performance, and implementing operational improvements that enhance customer experience and employee productivity. Joe Williams works closely with brand presidents and market leaders to drive operational excellence and support the company's commitment to community engagement and positive impact. By focusing on streamlined processes and effective resource deployment, Williams ensures that Thrive Restaurant Group operates seamlessly, supporting its workforce of over 8,000 employees and delivering on its brand promises across diverse markets. Joe Williams drives operational synergy.

    Gregory Stroud - President

    Gregory Stroud, the President at Thrive Restaurant Group, provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for key operational segments of the company. This role involves driving business development initiatives and ensuring alignment with the overall corporate mission across its diverse restaurant portfolio. The President's focus extends to enhancing brand performance and market presence within the 18 states where Thrive operates. Gregory Stroud collaborates with the executive team to identify growth opportunities and implement strategies that reinforce Thrive's commitment to community engagement and positive customer experiences. By championing operational excellence and fostering strong relationships with franchise partners and internal teams, Stroud contributes significantly to the company's sustained success and its reputation as a leader in the hospitality sector. Gregory Stroud guides strategic expansion efforts.
    Gregory Stroud

    Robin Robison - President, Emerging Brands

    Robin Robison, the President, Emerging Brands at Thrive Restaurant Group, spearheads the development and growth strategies for the company's newer and evolving restaurant concepts. This specialized leadership position focuses on identifying market trends, innovating menu offerings, and optimizing the operational models for brands poised for expansion. The President, Emerging Brands works to establish a strong market foothold for these concepts across the 18 states of operation, ensuring they align with Thrive's core values of community impact and customer satisfaction. Robin Robison's strategic vision is crucial for nurturing these brands from inception through to scalable success, contributing to the overall diversification and dynamism of Thrive Restaurant Group's portfolio. By driving innovation and operational refinement, Robison ensures these emerging brands capture market share and deliver exceptional dining experiences. Robin Robison cultivates future growth drivers.

    Michael Coffey - President - Applebee's, Carlos O' Kellys, and Qdoba

    Michael Coffey, the President - Applebee's, Carlos O' Kellys, and Qdoba at Thrive Restaurant Group, directs the strategic and operational management for these prominent dining brands within the company's extensive portfolio. This leadership role involves overseeing the performance, growth, and brand integrity of numerous locations across 18 states, ensuring consistent execution of service standards and customer engagement strategies. The President - Applebee's, Carlos O' Kellys, and Qdoba is responsible for driving profitability, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering a positive work environment for the thousands of employees associated with these brands. Michael Coffey's expertise is key to adapting these established concepts to evolving consumer preferences while upholding Thrive Restaurant Group's commitment to community and positive impact. By focusing on brand-specific initiatives and market penetration, Coffey strengthens Thrive's presence and customer loyalty. Michael Coffey ensures brand vitality.

    Brian Schaetzle - Market President

    Brian Schaetzle, the Market President at Thrive Restaurant Group, leads and directs operational strategies within specific geographic markets across the company's 18-state footprint. This executive role focuses on optimizing performance, driving revenue growth, and ensuring the successful implementation of corporate initiatives at the regional level. The Market President is instrumental in fostering strong relationships with local teams, franchisees, and community stakeholders to enhance brand presence and customer satisfaction. Brian Schaetzle's leadership ensures that Thrive Restaurant Group's commitment to positive community impact and exceptional dining experiences is consistently delivered across all managed locations. By overseeing market-specific operations and adapting strategies to local demands, Schaetzle plays a vital role in the company's overall expansion and success. Brian Schaetzle enhances regional performance.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Thrive Restaurant Group Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Thrive Restaurant Group?
    Thrive Restaurant Group is led by Jon Rolph (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michael Derr (Chief Financial Officer) and Joe Williams (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Thrive Restaurant Group’s executive team?
    The executive team of Thrive Restaurant Group includes leaders such as Jon Rolph (Chief Executive Officer), Michael Derr (Chief Financial Officer), Joe Williams (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Thrive Restaurant Group have?
    Thrive Restaurant Group has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Thrive Restaurant Group’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Thrive Restaurant Group includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, President, Emerging Brands.