DENVER – Scott Crane, who was president of Smashburger operations for the past six years, has been appointed CEO  to replace former CEO David Prokupek.

Prior to joining Smashburger in 2007, Crane was responsible for running nearly 1,000 units for various national restaurant and retail brands, including Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Blockbuster. His background has enabled him to build one of the industry’s strongest operational teams and business model in the fast casual segment, according to a news release.


“Scott has been a large part of the growth and success of the Smashburger brand, from our second restaurant to the nearly 250 restaurants we have across the globe today,” said Rick Schaden, founder and chairman of Consumer Capital Partners and chairman of the Smashburger board of managers. “We are confident he is the right executive to lead Smashburger into its next chapter, teaming up with Founder Tom Ryan in continuing to execute an unparalleled food and hospitality experience for customers, and solid, calculated growth for our brand.”

Smashburger calls itself America’s fastest-growing, fast-casual “better-burger” restaurant. It operates than 230 corporate and franchise restaurants in 30 states and four countries.