Famous Brands International, the parent company of TCBY Yogurt and Mrs. Fields Cookies, has announced the appointment of Jonathan T. Drake as its new Chief Executive Officer. As CEO, he will support Famous Brands in its continued product diversification and global expansion.
“I am thrilled to join the Famous Brands team,” Drake said in a press release. “I look forward to working closely with the outstanding team at Famous Brands to build on our positive momentum and capitalize on the unique opportunities ahead.”
Bringing more than two decades of experience in driving profitable and sustainable growth as well as strategic brand building at leading food and nutrition companies, Drake believes that the rollout of the company’s new frozen yogurt vending machines and Mrs. Fields Confections positions both segments optimally for growth in their respective markets.
“I am pleased that Jonathan will lead Famous Brands during the Company’s exciting next phase of growth and expansion,” said James Zenni, Chairman of Famous Brands and Chief Executive Officer of Z Capital Group, L.L.C. “We are confident that Jonathan’s extensive experience will provide significant value to the company and elevate the unique position of the TCBY and Mrs. Fields brands in the market.”
Most recently, Drake held the position of Vice President of the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) Performance Nutrition Division at global nutrition company GLANBIA. With operations in 34 countries, he was responsible for the portfolio of performance nutrition brands focused on specialist, independent, gym, and online channels in the EMEA region. Prior to joining GLANBIA in 2012, Drake spent 20 years in a series of senior leadership roles at Sara Lee, The Virgin Group, and Kraft Foods.
In addition to his consumer products background, Drake is also a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy, West Point, and served in the U.S. Army between 1989 and 1992, receiving a number of awards and decorations.
