Denise Nelsen leads Smashburger as its Chief Executive Officer, overseeing the company’s leadership team and brand growth. She joined the company in January 2024 and brings more than 30 years of QSR industry expertise to her role. As a leader at Smashburger, Nelsen is committed to enhancing both the guest and team member experience, cultivating an atmosphere where every location is an exceptional dining destination.
Prior to her role at Smashburger, Nelsen held the position of Senior Vice President of U.S. Operations at Starbucks. During her tenure, she led the brand’s U.S. business for nearly five years, building upon over twenty years of diverse operational and support roles within the company. Her vast skill set includes proficient team coaching and development, strategic planning and execution, managing multiple units across diverse regions and demonstrating exceptional cross-functional leadership abilities, among others.
Nelsen graduated from Purdue University Northwest, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources and Marketing. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, maintaining an active lifestyle, spending time with her family and indulging in the occasional DIY project. Nelsen’s go-to order at Smashburger is the Classic Single – hold the onions!
