Executive Director Richard Screnci Appointed by Famous Brands International
Famous Brands International, the franchising company behind two of the most recognizable names in the specialty dessert industry—Mrs. Fields® and TCBY®—has announced the appointment of Richard Screnci as Executive Director. The leadership addition marks a significant milestone for the company as it continues to strengthen its franchise network, enhance operational performance, and pursue long-term growth opportunities across domestic and international markets.
Screnci joins Famous Brands with more than a decade of experience leading operations for some of the restaurant industry’s most prominent brands. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for supporting franchisees, driving operational improvements, and implementing initiatives that enhance brand performance and customer satisfaction. His extensive background in managing large-scale franchise systems is expected to play a key role in helping Famous Brands advance its strategic objectives while delivering greater value to franchise partners worldwide.
Most recently, Screnci served as Head of Restaurant Operations for Tim Hortons U.S., where he oversaw operations across all regions of the business. In this role, he managed cross-functional teams responsible for restaurant operations, training programs, equipment management, and brand standards. His leadership contributed to efforts aimed at improving operational consistency, strengthening franchisee relationships, and ensuring a high-quality guest experience across the network.
Before joining Tim Hortons, Screnci spent several years with Burger King, where he gained extensive experience working closely with franchise operators. During his tenure, he participated in multiple system-wide initiatives focused on improving restaurant performance, streamlining operations, and supporting franchise growth. His experience with globally recognized quick-service restaurant brands has equipped him with a deep understanding of franchise business models and the challenges and opportunities faced by operators in competitive markets.
The appointment comes at an important time for Famous Brands International. Since being acquired by Pearl Street Equity in 2023, the company has been focused on strengthening its foundation for future growth. Key priorities have included enhancing franchisee support systems, investing in operational excellence, modernizing business capabilities, and identifying strategic opportunities to expand the reach of its iconic brands.
Mrs. Fields and TCBY have long held a prominent place in the dessert category. Mrs. Fields is widely known for its freshly baked cookies and indulgent sweet treats, while TCBY has established itself as a pioneer in frozen yogurt and healthier dessert options. Together, the brands have built strong consumer loyalty and maintain a global franchise network that spans more than 275 locations worldwide.
As consumer preferences continue to evolve and competition within the foodservice industry intensifies, Famous Brands is placing increased emphasis on innovation, operational efficiency, and franchisee success. Company leaders believe that bringing in an experienced executive like Screnci will help accelerate these efforts and further position the organization for sustainable expansion.
Under its current growth strategy, Famous Brands is investing in the people, systems, and infrastructure necessary to support franchise operators while enhancing the overall customer experience. The company aims to provide franchisees with stronger operational resources, improved training programs, and greater strategic guidance as they navigate changing market conditions and evolving customer expectations.
Screnci’s experience leading large franchise networks is expected to support these goals by helping create greater alignment across the organization and ensuring operational best practices are consistently implemented throughout the system. His track record of building collaborative relationships with franchisees and cross-functional teams aligns closely with the company’s commitment to partnership-driven growth.
Commenting on his appointment, Screnci expressed enthusiasm about joining the organization and contributing to the future success of its well-established brands.
“Mrs. Fields and TCBY are brands with tremendous heritage, loyal customers, and meaningful growth potential,” said Screnci. “I am excited to join the organization at such an important time and work alongside our franchisees and team members to build upon the strong foundation already in place. I look forward to supporting our franchise community, strengthening operations, and helping advance the continued growth of these iconic brands.”
His remarks reflect the company’s broader vision of fostering collaboration between corporate leadership and franchise partners to achieve shared success. Franchise support remains a central component of Famous Brands’ business strategy, with leadership recognizing that strong franchise relationships are essential to long-term brand growth and customer satisfaction.
The company believes that investments in operational excellence and leadership development will enable both brands to capitalize on new opportunities in existing and emerging markets. By focusing on operational consistency, customer engagement, and franchisee success, Famous Brands aims to strengthen its competitive position while preserving the heritage and brand equity that have made Mrs. Fields and TCBY household names.
Industry observers note that experienced franchise operators and executives are increasingly valuable as restaurant and retail brands seek to adapt to changing consumer behaviors, labor challenges, digital transformation, and evolving market dynamics. Screnci’s background in managing complex franchise systems and implementing performance-improvement initiatives positions him well to help guide Famous Brands through this next phase of development.
As the company continues to execute its long-term growth strategy, the addition of Screnci to the leadership team signals a continued commitment to operational excellence, franchisee support, and sustainable expansion. With strong brand recognition, an established global footprint, and renewed investment under Pearl Street Equity ownership, Famous Brands is positioning itself to build on the legacy of Mrs. Fields and TCBY while pursuing new opportunities for growth in the years ahead.
The appointment underscores the company’s confidence in the future of its brands and its dedication to creating a stronger platform for franchisees, employees, and customers alike. By combining iconic brand heritage with experienced leadership and strategic investment, Famous Brands International is laying the groundwork for its next chapter of growth and innovation in the global dessert marketplace.
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