Heather has more than two decades of relevant restaurant, brand, and franchise leadership experience working with some of the most notable brands in the QSR industry. Before joining Taco John’s as President & CEO in February 2024, Heather served as the Brand President at KBP Brands, a large QSR Franchisee of KFC, Taco Bell, and Arby’s. She began her restaurant career with the international pretzel franchise, Auntie Anne’s, where she held multiple leadership roles until she became the Brand President. Heather earned a bachelor’s degree at Millersville University, Millersville, PA and a master’s degree from the Smeal College of Business at Penn State University. Neary is an active member of the International Franchise Association and has served on the Board of Directors for the National Restaurant Association, and the Women’s Foodservice Forum. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Essential Property Realty Trust (NYSE: EPRT), as well as on the Board of Advisors for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.