Slim Chickens Names Christina Vaughan President and Chief Operating Officer

Better-Chicken Brand Elevates Proven Operations Leader to its First President as it Enters a Defining Chapter of U.S. Growth

February 02, 2026 // Franchising.com // FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Slim Chickens, a leading fast-casual franchise in the better-chicken segment featuring dine-in and drive-thru service, announced today the promotion of Christina Vaughan to President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Vaughan becomes the brand’s first President and will oversee the Slim Chickens U.S. business as the company continues to strengthen and scale its system.

Since opening its doors in Fayetteville, Arkansas in 2003, Slim Chickens has built a fiercely loyal following around one simple mission: serve the best chicken tenders using premium, all-natural cuts, marinated in Southern-style buttermilk and breaded by hand to order. The better-chicken brand’s menu extends beyond tenders to include wings, sandwiches, Chicken & Waffles, and signature sides, paired with 14 house sauces, including the fan-favorite Cayenne Ranch. The experience is completed with made-by-hand desserts served in take-home mason jars, all delivered in a modern, Southern-inspired setting designed for gathering. Today, Slim Chickens has opened 330+ restaurants globally, with more than 1,000 locations in development across the U.S. and international markets. 

“This is a defining moment for Slim Chickens,” said Tom Gordon, Chief Executive Officer of Slim Chickens. “Over the last four years, Christina has evolved into a true cultural and business leader for our brand. Her impact on our operations, our people, and our franchise community has been extraordinary. Promoting Christina to President and COO reflects our confidence in her ability to lead the U.S. business forward as we continue growing Slim Chickens in a way that stays true to who we are.”

Vaughan joined Slim Chickens four years ago as Senior Vice President of Operations and was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2024. During her tenure, she has strengthened operational consistency, elevated the Slim Chickens guest experience, and worked closely with franchise partners as the brand expanded across diverse markets and formats. In her expanded role, Vaughan will lead all aspects of Slim Chickens’ domestic operations, performance, and franchisee support.

“The opportunity ahead is real, and I’m excited to lead us forward. We have a strong foundation and a passionate system, and by focusing on operational excellence, smart growth, and consistent execution, we can unlock even greater success across the brand,” said Vaughan. “What excites me most is continuing to work alongside our franchisees and teams—because when we are aligned, focused, and accountable, we create results that benefit everyone.”

For more information on the Slim Chickens franchise opportunity, visit slimchickensfranchise.com. Connect with Slim Chickens on LinkedIn by visiting https://www.linkedin.com/company/slim-chickens. 

For more information on Slim Chickens, visit slimchickens.com.

About Slim Chickens

Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise that features dine-in and drive-through in the better-chicken segment, opened in 2003 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Offering high-quality food with a focus on fresh, delicious ingredients, the brand prides itself on its Southern flair and commitment to hospitality, all in a fast-casual setting. Food is cooked to order, and the differentiated menu features chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings, and unique side items, alongside 14 house dipping sauces.

SOURCE Slim Chickens

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Abbey Scurio
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