Potbelly Franchise Development Team Adds Two Accomplished Executives with Appointments of Robert Bhagwandat and Andie Smirl

October 26, 2026 // Franchising.com // CHICAGO – Potbelly announced today the appointments of Robert Bhagwandat as Vice President of Franchising and Andie Smirl as Director of Franchise Development. Working alongside Senior Vice President of Franchising and Development Jennifer Durham, they will focus on attracting qualified operators, supporting franchise obligations and new-unit investments with existing franchise owners and advancing development in priority markets.

Bhagwandat will oversee franchise recruitment and sales, focusing on driving growth with qualified multi-unit restaurant operator groups. Smirl will work closely with prospective franchise owners to progress the sales process, and she will guide expansion efforts in top priority markets.

“Robert and Andie understand that thoughtful growth starts with strong relationships,” said Durham. “They each bring a valuable perspective on what operators look for throughout the franchise sales process, from evaluating an opportunity to opening shops and growing their portfolios. Their combined expertise will strengthen our team as we execute our plan to bring Potbelly to more communities.”

Joining Potbelly from Checkers & Rally’s, Bhagwandat most recently served as Senior Director of Franchise Development and Acting Vice President of Development. His experience spans franchise recruitment, real estate, operations and market development, with a focus on attracting multi-unit operators and supporting expansion across traditional and non-traditional settings.

Smirl brings nearly a decade of experience across franchise operations, sales and development. In her previous role, she served as director of franchise sales for Houston TX Hot Chicken. Earlier in her career, she worked in restaurant operations before transitioning into franchise development, giving her firsthand perspective on how growth decisions translate at the shop level.

At Potbelly, Bhagwandat and Smirl will give proven restaurant operators opportunities to invest in a system that offers multi-unit operators a scalable model with multiple revenue channels, including in-shop, digital and catering, along with flexible formats that broaden site selection opportunities. As the brand continues expanding across the United States, it is seeking qualified multi-unit restaurant groups looking to diversify into the sandwich segment.

SOURCE Potbelly Sandwich Works

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