Mr Gatti's Pizza Announces Full Ownership Transition as CEO Jim Phillips Retires

August 06, 2026 // Franchising.com // FORT WORTH, Texas – Mr Gatti’s Pizza, the pizza and family entertainment brand, announced a leadership transition, including the planned retirement of CEO Jim Phillips after more than a decade leading the company’s transformation and growth.

Details of the leadership transition include changes in governance. The CEO will remain through the transition, with a new chief executive officer to be announced at a later date.

"Leading Mr Gatti's over the past 11 years has been one of the great privileges of my career," said Phillips. "Together with our franchisees and leadership team, we've strengthened every part of this business, from operations and financial performance to brand consistency and franchisee support. Most importantly, we've built a culture centered on partnership and long-term success. I could not be more confident in Brint's leadership or more excited about the future of this incredible brand."

Under Phillips' leadership, the brand has undergone a period of transformation and growth, with changes in various aspects of operations and the franchise system.

The franchise system has been updated to improve franchisee support and branding at store level, with efforts to refine operations and collaboration across the network.

"Jim has led one of the most impressive transformations in our brand's history," said Ryan. ""His leadership established a strong financial foundation, built an outstanding executive team and created a culture that puts franchisees first. My wife Amanda and I are honored to carry that legacy forward as we invest in the continued growth of Mr Gatti's. We remain committed to supporting our franchisees and positioning the company for long-term success."

Ryan, founder and chairman of Dallas-based Ryan, LLC, has been a Mr Gatti's franchisee for years before investing in the franchisor. Since becoming co-owner, he has worked alongside Phillips to strengthen the company's financial position and position the brand for its next phase of growth.

With more than 200 locations open or in development across Texas and the Southeastern United States, Mr Gatti's continues to expand its family-focused brand while serving pizza, wings and shareable favorites at an everyday value.

SOURCE Mr Gatti’s Pizza

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