September 22, 2026 // Franchising.com // CYPRESS, CA - WKS Restaurant Group, one of the largest restaurant franchisees in the United States, announced today that Jay Spongberg has been promoted to President & Chief Operating Officer. Roland Spongberg will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer.
Jay has been an integral part of WKS for 26 years and has held numerous leadership positions throughout his tenure, including Property Manager, Vice President of Development, and Chief Operating Officer for the past 16 years.
While serving as COO, Jay has provided strong leadership across WKS operations and played a critical role in the continued growth and success of the company and its brands. Throughout his tenure, he has worked closely with WKS’ brand partners and senior leadership teams, building strong relationships and bringing extensive operational experience and a deep understanding of the restaurant business to his role. In his role as COO, he helped the company grow from 65 restaurants to 382.
As President & COO, Spongberg will continue to lead WKS operations while taking on broader responsibility across the organization. His promotion recognizes his significant contributions to WKS and the leadership he has demonstrated throughout his 26-year career with the company.
Roland Spongberg, Chief Executive Officer of WKS Restaurant Group, stated that he is pleased to have Jay take on this expanded role, noting that Jay’s leadership, operational expertise, and deep knowledge of WKS will continue to be invaluable as the company moves forward.
“I have had the opportunity to work alongside Jay for many years, and I have seen firsthand the impact he has had on WKS,” said Roland Spongberg. “I am excited to continue working with him in this expanded role and look forward to what we will accomplish together in the years ahead.”
WKS Restaurant Group is one of the largest restaurant franchisees in the United States, operating over 380 locations across 20 states, including iconic brands such as Wendy’s, Denny’s, El Pollo Loco, and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts. WKS is the largest franchisee of Denny’s, El Pollo Loco, and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, and holds an 80% majority stake in a Western U.S. joint venture with Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation.
Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Cypress, California, the family-owned company prides itself on a culture of service, operational excellence, and opportunity. WKS is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences while empowering its 10,000+ team members to lead, serve, and make a difference.
To learn more about WKS, please visit our brand website at www.wksusa.com or our social channels via Facebook and LinkedIn.
SOURCE WKS Restaurant Group
WKS Restaurant Group is one of the largest restaurant franchisees in the United States, operating over 380 locations across 20 states, including iconic brands such as Wendy’s, Denny’s, El Pollo Loco, and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.