Roark Capital Group

Roark Capital Group is an Atlanta-based private equity firm founded in 2001 by Neal K. Aronson. The firm focuses on mid-market investments, with emphasis on franchised and multi-unit business models in the retail, restaurant and consumer services sectors, and also targets related consumer services and health, wellness and beauty opportunities. Roark seeks to partner with management and business owners, including family-owned enterprises, through ownership transfers, buyouts, recapitalizations and divestitures. The firm has a track record of acquiring companies from their founders or families and aims to add strategic and operational value as a trusted financial partner. Based in Atlanta, Roark pursues opportunities primarily in North America and maintains a focus on building durable, growth-oriented platforms within its target sectors.

Timothy Armstrong

Managing Director and Member of Investment Committee

Rajiv Asnani

Principal

Brock Bacon

Senior Associate

Mary Chen

Analyst

Sabrina E. Chu

Vice President

Jason Cohen

Principal

Thomas D. D'Alessandro

Vice President

Roanne Daniels

Managing Director and Member of Investment Committee

Stewart Long Davis

Vice President

Sagar S. Gandhi

Principal

Andy Giacone

Principal

Clayton Harmon

Managing Director and Member of Investment Committee

Geoff Hill

Managing Director and Member of Investment Committee

Patrick Hillegass

Principal

Kevin Hofmann

Managing Director and Member of the Investment Committee

Chadwick Hume

Principal

Ryan Johnson

Senior Associate

John Jordan

Principal and Chair of Investment Committee

Matthew Kaelin

Co-Chief Investment Officer and Senior Managing Director

Mark Lawrence

Principal

David Lee

Principal

Wesley C. Lee

CFO

Brennan McCormick

Vice President

Martin R. McLendon

Vice President

Ched Milic

Senior Associate

Max Mudd

Senior Associate

Ian Picache

Managing Director, Chief Analytics Officer and Member of Investment Committee

Edward Sampognaro

Vice President

Samuel P. Seldowitz

Vice President

Michael Sharkey

Managing Director

Aaron Silbar

Senior Associate

Michael D. Simon

Vice President

Michael Thompson

Managing Director and Member of Investment Committee

Brett R. Ubl

Vice President

Kevin Wang

Senior Associate

Samuel K. Wetstone

Principal

Dan Xiang

Senior Associate

Jason deFaria

Senior Associate

Past deals in Restaurants

Dave's Hot Chicken

Acquisition in 2025
Dave's Hot Chicken is an American fast-casual restaurant chain that specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken. The establishment operates street food outlets that focus on providing hot and fresh food products, including chicken sandwiches and tenders. These items are prepared fresh at live counters, allowing for a dynamic dining experience. Customers can enjoy the convenience of ordering food both in-person and online, with options for delivery to their doorsteps. The chain emphasizes quality and flavor, aiming to cater to a diverse clientele seeking bold and spicy chicken dishes.

Subway

Acquisition in 2023
Subway is an American fast-food restaurant franchise specializing in submarine sandwiches and salads. It offers a diverse menu that includes made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, salads, breakfast items, desserts, cookies, and beverages, allowing customers to customize their meals with a variety of ingredients. As of November 2014, Subway has expanded its presence to over 43,000 locations across 108 countries and territories, establishing itself as a significant player in the quick-service restaurant sector. The franchise emphasizes freshness and customization, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences.

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Acquisition in 2021
Nothing Bundt Cakes is a leading franchisor specializing in gourmet bakeries. It offers hand-crafted, high-quality Bundt cakes and related merchandise across over 175 locations in the U.S. and Canada.

The Cheesecake Factory

Post in 2020
Founded in 1972, The Cheesecake Factory operates over 300 restaurants globally under brands such as The Cheesecake Factory, North Italia, and Fox Restaurant Concepts. Known for its extensive menu made from scratch daily, the company also produces cheesecakes and other baked products for international licensees and third-party customers.

Culver's

Private Equity Round in 2017
Culver's owns and operates restaurants. Culver's provides butterburgers, frozen custard, chicken, sandwiches, shakes, malts, floats, snackpak, soups, salads, and beverages.

Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches

Acquisition in 2016
Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches is a franchised restaurant chain serves tasty sandwiches made fresh to order. Place an online order for pickup or delivery. Jimmy John’s is part of the Inspire Brand family of restaurants. It was founded by Jimmy John Liautaud in 1983 and is headquartered in Champaign, Illinois.

Naf Naf Grill

Private Equity Round in 2015
Naf Naf Grill, LLC is a fast-casual restaurant chain founded in 2008 and based in Chicago, Illinois. The company specializes in authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a diverse menu that includes pitas, bowls, basmati rice, shawarma, falafel, salads, and various garnishes and sauces. Naf Naf Grill is recognized for its commitment to using fresh ingredients and has gained critical acclaim for its award-winning dishes. With a growing presence, the restaurant operates 13 locations and has plans for further expansion, including new sites in Minneapolis and Madison, Wisconsin. In addition to dine-in services, Naf Naf Grill provides catering options for offices, homes, and events, making it a versatile choice for a variety of dining needs.
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