Schnitz Agency has appointed Brenton Howie (featured image) as its new chief executive officer.

Howie will join Schnitz from food service company Breadsolutions, where he was most recently the chief operations officer.

Prior to Breadsolutions, Howie worked across senior financial business partnering roles with larger FMCG organisations, including Simplot, Murray Goulburn and Lion Nathan.

As the newly appointed CEO, Howie’s key focus will be to implement Schnitz’s company strategy, with a specific focus on improving profitable partnerships, delivering exceptional customer service experiences, improving support office operations, and ensuring Schnitz continues to grow and evolve as a responsible and sustainable franchise network.

Schnitz co-founder and managing director, Andrew Dyduk, said Howie’s appointment as CEO is instrumental for Schnitz, as the brand experiences continual growth within the fast casual dining space.

Dyduk said: “Brenton is a commercial leader and has been selected for his ability to build exceptional relationships.

“He will work closely with our support office, franchise partners and store teams to continue building our brand, and we’re thrilled to have him on board.”

Schnitz, one of Australia’s most successful fast casual restaurants, has an expansive network of more than 70 company owned and franchise restaurants.

The family-owned company has recently undergone a significant transition, rolling out new-look restaurants and an improved, extended menu offering that also features vegan and gluten free options designed to appeal to a wider customer base.

Speaking about his new appointment, Howie said: “It’s a really exciting time to be joining Schnitz, with the brand in the midst of such a huge period of growth.

“I’m looking forward to working with the team to take such a much-loved, family-oriented brand to even further heights.”