Mountain Mike’s Pizza LLC, parent to the nearly 200-unit franchise brand, has named Jim Metevier to the new position of president and chief operating officer, the company announced. The Newport Beach, Calif.-based Mountain Mike’s said Metevier will oversee franchisee sales, operational systems, brand marketing and guest experience. Metevier most recently served as president of the Greensboro, N.C.-based Biscuitville Fresh Southern brand. Previously, he held leadership positions at Louisville, Ky.-based Yum Brands Inc., including chief operating officer of the KFC U.S. division. “Not only is Jim extremely passionate about restaurant operations and the potential for the Mountain Mike’s Pizza brand, he has an impressive history of producing remarkable results for world class franchise brands such as KFC,” said Chris Britt and Ed St. Geme, co-CEOs and principal owners of Mountain Mike’s Pizza, in a statement. Metevier said he was “impressed by Mountain Mike’s positive sales momentum and significant new-unit growth, but what really sold me was the incredible food, dynamic leadership team and dedicated group of franchise partners.” Mountain Mikes, founded in 1978 in Palo Alto, Calif., said it planned to open 20 new units this year. The company has franchised units in California, Nevada, Oregon and Utah. – Source: NRN