Whataburger has appointed restaurant industry veteran Ryan Moore as its new Chief Financial Officer, strengthening its executive leadership team as the Texas-based burger chain continues an ambitious expansion beyond its traditional markets.
The appointment, first reported by Nation’s Restaurant News and confirmed by company announcements, comes as Whataburger accelerates its transformation into a national restaurant brand. Moore officially joins the company at the end of July and will work alongside outgoing CFO Janelle Sykes before her retirement in September, ensuring a smooth leadership transition.
Moore brings more than 20 years of restaurant finance experience to the role. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer at Torchy’s Tacos, where he helped support the brand’s growth strategy and operational expansion. Prior to that, he spent a decade at Taco Bell, serving as Vice President of Finance and playing a key role in the company’s financial planning and business development initiatives.
Announcing the appointment, Whataburger President and CEO Debbie Stroud highlighted Moore’s ability to guide restaurant businesses through periods of sustained growth.
“Ryan is a proven financial leader with deep experience in the restaurant industry and a strong track record of helping brands navigate periods of meaningful growth. He also understands how to create sustainable growth while protecting the qualities that have made Whataburger an iconic brand for 76 years,” Stroud said.
Moore echoed that vision, describing Whataburger as a regional brand with national potential.
“Whataburger is an iconic regional brand with the opportunity to become a national player. Success means finding the right way to share Whataburger with people who have not yet had the opportunity to experience it, while keeping the core essence and heart of the brand.”
