Experienced restaurant executive John Dillon will oversee regional US expansion for the bakery-café chain and has been tasked with boosting sales and profitability for franchisees
la Madeleine President John Dillon | Photo credit: la Madeleine
Texas-based la Madeleine has appointed franchise expert John Dillon as its new President.
The former Denny’s President will be responsible for growing the group’s sales, franchise network and market presence, as well improving store-level profitability and operational efficiency.
In a press release, la Madeleine said the appointment strengthens its leadership team and will support parent company Groupe Le Duff’s aggressive expansion plans.
The French-inspired bakery-café chain currently operates 91 stores across the US.
“John’s extensive experience in the franchise restaurant industry brings exceptional leadership, strategic vision and a talent for driving authentic and aggressive transformation, which are all key qualities to guide la Madeleine into its next phase of expansion,” said Lionel Ladouceur, CEO, Groupe LeDuff.
Dillon joins la Madeleine from advisory firm HMS Growth Partners, where he served as Chief Growth Partner. He started his career as Director of Marketing, Insights & Strategy at restaurant franchise group Yum! Brands before holding various leadership roles over a 17-year spell with US diner chain Denny’s, including Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Brand Officer and President.
Founded in 1983 by French businessman Patrick Esquerré, la Madeleine was sold to an investment group in 1998 and later acquired by Groupe Le Duff in 2001 for an undisclosed sum. Groupe Le Duff also operates French bakery-café chain Brioche Dorée, which has 12 stores in the US.