Jersey Mike’s Subs, the Manasquan-based sandwich franchisor known for its fresh-sliced subs, on Tuesday announced a major addition to its leadership team with the appointment of Betsy Mercado as the company’s first-ever chief people officer (CPO), effective immediately.
Mercado, a veteran human resources leader with over 20 years of experience in the restaurant and franchise industries, will be responsible for spearheading Jersey Mike’s comprehensive people strategies. Her mandate includes overseeing leadership development, compliance, and the overall team member experience, all while sustaining the brand’s distinctive, “people-first culture” amid its continued national and global growth.
“Betsy brings an exceptional combination of franchise expertise, strategic vision, and a genuine passion for developing people,” Charlie Morrison, chief executive officer of Jersey Mike’s said. “Her background in franchise operations and proven success building world-class HR departments make her the ideal leader to advance our people-first culture. As we continue our rapid expansion, her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening and supporting our team members and ensuring we preserve the authentic Jersey Mike’s culture as we scale.”
Mercado’s extensive experience includes her most recent role as CPO at Flynn Group, the world’s largest franchise operator, where she managed HR operations for a vast network of more than 2,700 restaurants and fitness clubs. She previously served as Vice President of Human Resources for The Palm Restaurants.
Based out of the company’s New Jersey headquarters, Mercado expressed enthusiasm for building upon the brand’s established values.
“Jersey Mike’s has established itself as a brand that truly cares about its people and communities,” said Mercado. “I’m energized to build on that legacy, strengthening the foundation already in place while shaping the future of people development at the Company. My goal is to enhance an environment where every team member can grow, contribute meaningfully, and take pride in being a part of the Jersey Mike’s story as it enters this next chapter of growth.”
