Charting a New Course

John Chidsey has both depth and breadth to his 25-year career. Currently the CEO of Subway, the privately owned franchiser of Subway sandwich shops, he was formerly the chairman and CEO of Burger King, a public company. He helmed Avis and Budget car rental companies and Jackson Hewitt, a tax-preparation firm. Prior to that, he was in management at PepsiCo. He also worked in private equity between his positions at Burger King and Subway. When he took his most recent position, he stepped down from the board of casual dining company Brinker International. He currently serves on the boards of Norwegian Cruise Lines and Encompass Health. Although those companies serve two very different industries, they both have faced great challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This interview was conducted as much of the country was still sheltering in place in response to COVID-19. At that time Norwegian Cruise Lines were shut down, Subway sales were bouncing back and plans were being made to resume elective procedures for which Encompass Health provides rehabilitative care. It was still unclear how the country would reopen.

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About the Author(s)

April Hall

April Hall is the former managing editor of Directors & Boards


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