Steven M Romaniello

Romaniello joined Roark in 2008. He is actively involved with Roark's investments in FOCUS Brands, Wingstop, Corner Bakery, Anytime Fitness, and Arby's. Romaniello is the immediate past Chairman of the International Franchise Association and a member of their Executive Committee. Prior to joining Roark, Romaniello was CEO of FOCUS Brands. Prior to becoming CEO of FOCUS Brands, Romaniello served as President of Carvel Ice Cream. Under Romaniello's leadership, FOCUS Brands acquired Cinnabon in 2004, Schlotzsky's in 2006, and Moe's Southwest Grill in 2007. Prior to his tenure at FOCUS Brands, Romaniello was President and COO of US Franchise Systems. Romaniello helped grow USFS from one brand with 22 hotels in nine states to three brands and more than 500 hotels open in 50 states and five countries. Prior to joining USFS, Romaniello was a Vice President at Holiday Inn Worldwide, responsible for franchise services, support, and training for 1,700 hotels in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean operating under the Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza brands. He also led franchise sales and during his tenure, Holiday Inn increased its franchise sales from 60 in 1991 to 300 franchises in 1995. From 1988 to 1991, Romaniello held various positions with Days Inn of America. A native of Stamford, CT and a Tufts University graduate, Romaniello is a member of the Board of Directors of Anytime Fitness, Arby’s, Corner Bakery and Il Fornaio Restaurants, Jimmy John’s, Orangetheory, the Culinary Institute of America, and Share our Strength. Romaniello received a B.A. from Tufts University.