Le Duff America Inc., parent to the Bruegger’s Bagels and La Madeleine concepts, has named Paul Carolan to the new position of chief development officer, the company said Friday.
Carolan, most recently vice president of development at Sun Capital Partners in Boca Raton, Fla., will oversee Le Duff America’s real estate development and franchise departments.
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“Paul brings a unique understanding to the position from both the franchisor and franchisee perspective,” said Jim Vinz, co-chief executive of Dallas-based Le Duff America. “His expertise in franchise business development, franchise operations and support, real estate, finance and brand growth strategy will provide Le Duff America with a key new member of our senior leadership team.”
At Sun Capital Partners, Carolan oversaw franchise development of that company’s restaurant divisions, including Bar Louie, Boston Market, Garden Fresh and Fazoli’s.
Before joining Sun Capital, Carolan was executive vice president of franchise development for Einstein Noah Restaurant Group Inc. He has also worked with HMSHost Marriott and Aramark Corp.
Le Duff America is the North American division of Groupe Le Duff, a global bakery and restaurant company headquartered in Rennes, France. It also owns the Ristorante del Arte, Brioche Dorée, Au Pain Doré and Timothy’s World Coffee brands.
Contact Ron Ruggless at ronald.ruggless@penton.com.
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