HTeaO Appoints Chris Phillips as Chief Financial Officer to Support Rapid National Expansion
HTeaO, the nation’s leading iced tea franchise, has announced the appointment of Chris Phillips as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), marking a significant milestone in the brand’s continued growth across the United States. In his new role, Phillips will oversee HTeaO’s finance, accounting, information technology, and strategic planning functions, providing leadership and structure as the company accelerates its expansion strategy.
The appointment reflects HTeaO’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team and investing in scalable systems that support long-term success for both the brand and its franchise partners.
Strengthening Financial Leadership During a Period of Rapid Growth
As HTeaO continues to expand its footprint nationwide, the addition of an experienced financial executive underscores the company’s focus on disciplined growth, operational excellence, and franchisee profitability. Phillips will play a critical role in aligning financial strategy with the brand’s ambitious expansion plans, ensuring that infrastructure, reporting, and technology systems evolve alongside growth.
In his role as CFO, Phillips will lead efforts to enhance financial transparency, optimize resource allocation, and build technology-enabled processes that support data-driven decision-making across the organization.
Extensive Experience in Franchise and Multi-Brand Restaurant Organizations
Phillips brings more than 20 years of experience leading finance and strategy initiatives for highly franchised, multi-brand restaurant organizations. His career includes senior leadership roles at some of the most recognized names in the restaurant industry, where he was deeply involved in growth planning, acquisitions, and large-scale operational transformation.
Most notably, Phillips previously served in a senior finance leadership role at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, where he was part of the executive team that supported the brand’s $1.8 billion acquisition by Restaurant Brands International. During his tenure, he played a key role in guiding financial strategy during a period of accelerated global growth and franchise expansion.
Earlier in his career, Phillips held leadership positions at Darden Restaurants, where he led finance and strategic initiatives tied to large-scale growth programs, acquisitions, and operational improvements across multiple restaurant concepts.
A Strategic Fit for HTeaO’s Franchise-First Model
Phillips’ background in franchised restaurant systems aligns closely with HTeaO’s franchise-first growth model. His experience working directly with franchise operators, brand leadership, and cross-functional teams positions him well to support HTeaO’s rapidly expanding franchise network.
“I’m excited to join HTeaO at such a pivotal time in the brand’s journey,” said Phillips. “HTeaO has built incredible momentum, supported by a deeply engaged franchise system and a loyal, growing customer base. What stood out to me immediately was the opportunity to help strengthen the financial foundation of the business while partnering closely with franchisees and leadership to support smart, sustainable growth.”
Phillips emphasized that HTeaO’s culture, brand clarity, and long-term vision were key factors in his decision to join the company.
“This is a brand with a long runway,” he added. “I’m energized by what we can build together as we continue to scale nationally.”
Focus on Infrastructure, Technology, and Franchisee Profitability
As CFO, Phillips will oversee finance, accounting, strategic planning, and information technology, with a strong emphasis on building scalable infrastructure that supports the brand’s next phase of growth. His priorities will include strengthening financial and technology systems, enhancing analytics and reporting capabilities, and delivering insights that help drive franchisee profitability.
By partnering closely with operational, development, and leadership teams, Phillips will help ensure that financial strategy supports execution at every level of the organization.
His role will also include guiding long-term financial planning, evaluating investment opportunities, and ensuring that HTeaO maintains strong financial discipline as it expands into new markets.
CEO Highlights Strategic and Operational Leadership
HTeaO co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Justin Howe praised Phillips’ appointment, citing his rare combination of strategic vision and hands-on operational experience.
“Chris brings a unique blend of financial expertise, operational discipline, and strategic insight,” said Howe. “He understands what it takes to grow a franchise brand the right way—with transparency, accountability, and a true partnership mindset.”
Howe added that Phillips’ leadership will be instrumental as HTeaO continues to invest in its franchisees, internal teams, and long-term growth initiatives.
“As we scale nationally, having a CFO who understands franchising at this level is critical,” Howe said. “Chris’ experience will help ensure that we continue building a strong, sustainable business that creates long-term value for everyone in the HTeaO system.”
A Track Record of Building High-Performing Teams and Systems
Throughout his career, Phillips has been recognized for building high-performing teams and implementing scalable systems across finance, analytics, supply chain, and technology functions. His leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement—qualities that align closely with HTeaO’s culture and values.
His appointment further reinforces HTeaO’s focus on assembling a leadership team capable of supporting a fast-growing, franchise-driven organization while maintaining operational consistency and financial discipline.
Supporting Long-Term Value Creation
Phillips’ addition to the executive team underscores HTeaO’s continued investment in leadership that supports long-term value creation, operational excellence, and franchise success. As the brand expands its national presence, strong financial stewardship will play a critical role in sustaining momentum and ensuring consistent execution.
With Phillips as CFO, HTeaO is well-positioned to strengthen its financial foundation, enhance technology capabilities, and support franchise partners as the brand enters its next phase of growth.
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