JERICHO, N.Y. – James Walker, former vice president, North America for Subway, will join Nathan’s Famous as the company’s vice president of restaurants.

Walker brings more than 30 years of senior level management experience in the foodservice industry to his new job at Nathan’s Famous. He has held president, chief development officer, senior operations and new product development positions for brands such as Baja Fresh, Cinnabon, Johnny Rockets and Subway. He also has conducted business in more than 65 international markets and emerging markets such as Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Pakistan and Mongolia.

“I’m thrilled to join Nathan’s Famous, a truly iconic brand that started on the corner of Surf and Stillwell Avenues in Coney Island and is now a global player in the restaurant and retail spheres,” Walker said. “I look forward to making every guest experience in our restaurants rewarding and enjoyable on every level.”

Walker holds an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke Univ. He has achieved additional certificates and diplomas from Yale, Harvard, and MIT. In 2016, Walker was awarded the President’s “E” award from President Obama for Excellence in Furthering American Business Internationally.

“We are excited to have James on board to lead our all-important restaurant division,” said Eric Gatoff, CEO of Nathan’s Famous. “While our success over the last decade has largely come from our product licensing and foodservice businesses, Nathan’s started as a restaurant company in 1916. James’ skill set includes extensive experience in restaurant operations, franchising and product development. Adding someone as accomplished and innovative as James demonstrates our continued commitment to our restaurant business operations.”