US quick-service restaurant chain Whataburger has announced the appointment of QSR finance veteran Ryan Moore as its next Chief Financial Officer, effective 31 July 2026.
Moore brings 16 years of financial leadership in the QSR and fast-casual sectors to the role. He succeeds outgoing CFO Janelle Sykes, who is set to retire in September following a six-year tenure that saw the brand expand its footprint to nearly 1,200 locations across 17 states.
The executive transition comes as the 76-year-old regional burger brand continues its multi-state retail expansion beyond its core Texas market.
Executive Appointment and Experience
Moore joins Whataburger with extensive financial executive experience across rapidly scaling restaurant concepts:
🌮 Torchy's Tacos: Served six years as Chief Financial Officer, managing financial strategy and store expansion across regional markets.
🔔 Taco Bell: Spent ten years in financial leadership roles, culminating as Vice-President of Finance.
In his new position, Moore will oversee Whataburger's financial management, capital allocation strategy, and operational investments to support long-term national growth.
Debbie Stroud, President and Chief Executive Officer of Whataburger, stated that Moore's background in guiding brands through accelerated growth phases makes him well-suited to direct the company's financial strategy while preserving the brand's core operating identity.
Moore noted that his focus will centre on aligning strategic investments with market expansion, adapting operations for new geographic territories while maintaining brand equity.
Financial Leadership
Outgoing CFO Janelle Sykes joined Whataburger in February 2020. During her six years leading the finance division, the company executed the most expansive growth phase in its corporate history.
Key growth metrics during Sykes' tenure include:
📍 Unit Expansion: Increased store network count from 860 to nearly 1,200 locations.
🗺️ Geographic Footprint: Expanded brand presence from 11 states to a 17-state operational territory across the United States.
Sykes will work alongside Moore through September 2026 to ensure an orderly operational transition across the financial organisation.
About Whataburger
Founded in 1950 and headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, Whataburger is a major US quick-service restaurant chain known for its customisable burgers and 24/7 drive-thru operations. The brand currently operates nearly 1,200 restaurants across 17 states.
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