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BJas Restaurants appoints new CFO (NASDAQ:BJRI)

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  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 17:00 GMT by Seeking Alpha
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BJ’s Restaurants Names New Chief Financial Officer as Company Eyes Strategic Growth

BJ’s Restaurants, the popular casual‑dining chain known for its brewhouse concept, announced today that it has appointed John A. “Jack” Miller as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Miller will take over from outgoing CFO Lisa M. Thompson, who stepped down effective July 1, 2024. The transition is part of the company’s broader effort to strengthen its financial foundation, enhance shareholder value, and support an aggressive expansion strategy that includes both new locations and the development of its existing portfolio.

Who Is the New CFO?

Jack Miller brings more than 25 years of experience in corporate finance, investment banking, and private equity. Prior to joining BJ’s, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Sierra Pacific Brewing, where he oversaw a multi‑million‑dollar operating budget, led the company’s successful IPO in 2019, and drove a $350 million acquisition strategy that doubled the firm’s footprint. Miller also held financial leadership roles at Mountain States Hospitality Group and Redwood Energy, where he managed capital structure optimization, cost‑control initiatives, and strategic forecasting.

The company’s board expressed confidence that Miller’s deep industry knowledge and track record in scaling mid‑market restaurants will help BJ’s navigate the complex landscape of rising commodity costs, labor market pressures, and evolving consumer preferences.

The CFO’s Mandate

In a statement released to investors, Miller emphasized his commitment to:

1. Financial Discipline – Streamlining operating expenses and improving margin performance across the company’s 900+ locations.
2. Capital Allocation – Balancing investment in new brewhouse concepts with disciplined debt management, ensuring that the company can fund growth without compromising liquidity.
3. Strategic Partnerships – Exploring joint‑venture opportunities and technology‑enabled solutions that could expand BJ’s digital footprint and enhance customer experience.
4. Transparency and Reporting – Strengthening internal controls and ensuring timely, accurate financial reporting to the board and the public.

Miller also highlighted his experience in integrating acquisitions and managing complex financial systems – skills that will be essential as BJ’s continues to explore strategic opportunities in the casual‑dining space.

Company Context and Performance

BJ’s Restaurants has reported steady growth over the past five fiscal years, with revenue climbing from $1.12 billion in FY2020 to $1.32 billion in FY2023. The company attributes this success to its “Brewhouse Experience,” which combines a full‑service restaurant model with a craft‑beer focus. In FY2023, BJ’s achieved a net income of $110 million, a 15% increase over the previous year, and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 22%.

Despite the solid financial performance, the industry has faced headwinds such as inflationary supply chain pressures, higher wage costs, and shifting consumer spending. BJ’s has responded by increasing menu pricing strategically, optimizing labor schedules, and investing in technology upgrades that improve table‑service efficiency.

Transition Timeline

• July 1, 2024 – Lisa M. Thompson’s final day; Jack Miller officially assumes CFO duties.
• July 10, 2024 – Miller’s first board meeting; presentation of initial financial assessment and key priorities.
• July 15, 2024 – Public announcement via a press release and a dedicated webinar for analysts and investors.

During the interim period, Thompson will provide mentorship and support to Miller to ensure a seamless transition.

Analyst Reaction

Market analysts reacted positively to the appointment. “Miller’s background in the brewing sector is a natural fit for BJ’s, especially as the company looks to strengthen its beer portfolio and explore new brewing partnerships,” said Dana Lee, senior analyst at Capital Insights. “His experience with capital structuring will be invaluable as BJ’s pursues both organic and inorganic growth.”

Others pointed out that the CFO’s role will be critical in maintaining financial prudence amid rising costs. “The real test will be how effectively Miller can manage the cost structure while still funding the aggressive expansion plans announced last quarter,” noted Mark Patel, analyst at Equity Forward.

Company Vision and Strategic Outlook

BJ’s Restaurants continues to emphasize its commitment to the “Brewhouse Experience,” an approach that blends high‑quality food, craft beer, and an inviting atmosphere. Under the new CFO, the company plans to:

• Open 50 new locations over the next 12 months, targeting high‑traffic urban and suburban markets.
• Revitalize existing venues with technology‑driven enhancements such as mobile ordering, AI‑powered kitchen displays, and loyalty‑program integrations.
• Invest in sustainability by sourcing local ingredients, reducing waste, and exploring renewable energy options for its brewhouse operations.
• Strengthen the brand’s digital presence through targeted marketing campaigns, data‑analytics‑based customer segmentation, and partnerships with food‑delivery platforms.

The CFO’s focus on capital allocation will support these initiatives while ensuring the company remains financially robust.

Financial Disclosure and Investor Resources

Investors can access BJ’s latest quarterly earnings report and detailed financial statements on the company’s Investor Relations website. The CFO’s appointment is documented in a recent SEC filing (Form 8‑K) and a press release issued on the company’s website. For a deeper dive into the company’s strategic plans, readers are directed to the Capital Strategy section of BJ’s corporate website, which outlines the brewhouse concept, geographic expansion roadmap, and sustainability commitments.

Bottom Line

The appointment of Jack Miller as CFO signals BJ’s Restaurants’ determination to solidify its financial footing and accelerate growth in a challenging market environment. With a seasoned finance professional at the helm, the company is positioned to optimize costs, pursue strategic acquisitions, and maintain robust profitability while continuing to deliver a differentiated dining experience that appeals to today’s consumers.

As BJ’s moves forward, analysts and investors will be watching closely to see how Miller’s financial stewardship translates into tangible results—particularly in the areas of margin expansion, return on equity, and share price performance.