Starbird Names Former Jersey Mike’s President Hoyt Jones as Advisor to the Board

April 8, 2026 // FranchisePR.com // – Starbird, the San Francisco-based premium chicken concept, announced the appointment of industry veteran Hoyt Jones as advisor to the board of directors as the company accelerates its national franchising efforts.

Jones previously served as president of Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems, Inc., where he helped guide franchise development, operational alignment and national expansion across one of the nation’s most successful restaurant systems. During his tenure, Jersey Mike’s experienced significant growth and industry recognition, including ranking No. 2 on Entrepreneur’s 2024 Franchise 500.

“Hoyt brings a rare combination of franchise, marketing and brand-building expertise that will help shape Starbird’s next chapter,” said Greg Levin, chief executive officer of Starbird. “His experience helping build one of the country’s most disciplined multi-unit restaurant brands will be invaluable as we enter new markets while protecting the standards and brand integrity that define Starbird.”

As an advisor to the board, Jones will provide strategic counsel to Starbird’s leadership team on franchise development, operational discipline and long-term scalability. With extensive experience guiding multi-unit franchise networks, he has helped translate brand strategy into in-restaurant execution while supporting franchise partners and strengthening performance standards.

“Starbird has built a compelling brand and a strong operational foundation,” said Jones. “I’m excited to support the board and leadership team as the company continues developing a franchise platform designed for sustainable, scalable growth.”

Jones’ appointment follows the recent hiring of Levin as CEO, further strengthening Starbird’s leadership team as the company builds its national franchise platform.

Together, these leadership investments reinforce Starbird’s commitment to a franchise model that supports franchisee profitability, protects brand integrity and enables disciplined long-term development across multiple markets.

Today’s announcement comes as Starbird enters its 10th year in business and continues building its presence beyond California. The brand recently signed a 36-unit franchise development agreement in Texas – its largest to date – underscoring growing national demand for the concept and its Positively Delicious Chicken.

To learn more about Starbird or franchising opportunities, please visit starbirdchicken.com and starbirdfranchising.com, email franchising@starbirdchicken.com or contact 866-327-4779.

SOURCE Starbird