Dive Brief:
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Fast-casual chain Shake Shack has named Katherine Fogertey CFO, effective Monday. She will lead companywide financial operations, including accounting and control, financial planning and analysis, operations finance, investor relations and external reporting, and will be based in the company's New York City office.
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Fogertey had spent nearly 16 years at Goldman Sachs as an analyst covering the restaurant sector, focusing on the impact of tech and identifying potential growth opportunities. Prior to that, she was a lead analyst for the bank’s derivatives and exchange-traded fund research.
- Fogertey replaces Tara Comonte, who left the chain in March to become CEO of TMRW Life Sciences, a biotech company focused on in vitro fertilization, where she is a founding member of the board of directors.
Dive Insight:
Fogertey takes the reins of Shake Shack's financial operations after a year in which the fast-food chain saw a 12% drop in revenue from 2019.
“[Fogertey] brings extensive financial experience, knowledge of our brand and deep industry and capital markets insights,” Shake Shack CEO Randy Garutti said in a statement. “I know Katie will be a natural fit in our Shake Shack culture, and I’m looking forward to working with her and our entire team as our business enters a new phase of exciting growth ahead.”
Shake Shack took flak last spring for receiving $10 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) aid, a move some analysts decried, arguing that the assistance was intended for hard-hit small and medium-sized businesses. The company returned the money, saying it had received additional funding from investors.
“I am beyond thrilled to be joining the team at such a pivotal time in the Company’s journey,” Fogertey said. “The Shack brand is stronger than ever and well positioned to capitalize on all the many opportunities ahead."