Veteran operator elevated to strengthen systemwide leadership and drive growth for iconic quick-service brand
Atlanta, GA (RestaurantNews.com) Krystal, the iconic quick-service burger brand known for its signature square sliders, announced the promotion of Amanda Hyde to Chief Operating Officer. Hyde will report directly to SPB Hospitality’s Chairman and CEO G.J. Hart and take on expanded responsibility for systemwide operations as the brand continues its growth strategy.
Hyde brings more than two decades of restaurant industry experience spanning operations, brand leadership and multi-unit management. Since joining SPB Hospitality, she has played a central role in improving operational performance and supporting the company’s strategy to revitalize and expand the Krystal brand.
“Amanda is a respected operator with deep knowledge of the Krystal business and a strong track record of building high-performing teams,” said G.J. Hart, Chairman and CEO of SPB Hospitality. “Her leadership has been instrumental as we continue sharpening the brand’s operational focus and positioning Krystal for long-term growth.”
Hyde first joined SPB Hospitality as part of the leadership team supporting the company’s portfolio of brands, including Logan’s Roadhouse, before helping guide the Krystal brand’s turnaround and renewed growth strategy. During that time, she partnered closely with operations and franchise leaders to improve system execution, advance new restaurant development and elevate the overall guest experience.
In her role as Chief Operating Officer, Hyde will further expand her leadership of Krystal’s restaurant operations across the system, working alongside operators and franchise partners to drive performance, support continued development and maintain the brand’s focus on operational excellence. She will also collaborate closely with finance, human resources and other support teams to ensure strong alignment between restaurant operations and the systems that support them.
“Krystal has an incredible legacy and a loyal fan base,” said Hyde. “I’m proud to step into this role and continue working alongside our operators, franchise partners and team members to build on that foundation and expand Krystal into new communities while delivering great experiences for our guests every day.”
Founded in 1932, Krystal is one of the South’s most iconic quick-service restaurant brands, known for its distinctive square burgers, craveable menu and strong regional following. The brand continues to explore new markets and development opportunities as it expands beyond its traditional Southern footprint, including a new location slated to open in Union, New Jersey, in the coming months.
About Krystal Restaurants LLC
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Krystal Restaurants LLC is the original quick-service restaurant chain in the South. Krystal hamburgers have been served fresh and hot off the grill on the iconic square bun since 1932. The company proudly sticks to the classics, but they’ve never been afraid to innovate. Krystal has expanded to 13 states with nearly 300 restaurants and continues to deliver a one-of-a-kind taste experience through unique menu items offered at a great price. In 2025, QSR Magazine ranked Krystal among its Top 50 Contenders list, Technomic placed the brand on its Top 500 list, and USA Today’s 10Best named Krystal a runner-up for “Best Fast Food Breakfast” after placing in the top ten in 2024.
For more information, visit Krystal.com.
Contact:
Betsy DeMik
Champion
972-930-9933
bdemik@championmgt.com
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