The Leadership Team

Deborah is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in operational, supply chain, strategic, and general management roles across both large public and smaller private companies, complemented by deep expertise in human resources and legal. Most recently, Deborah served as an Operating Partner with Garnett Station Partners and, prior to that, as CEO & President of Carrols Restaurant Group, until its acquisition in 2024. Previously, she held leadership positions at Horizon Group USA and Toys “R” Us. Deborah currently serves on the board of Henry Schein, Inc., a global public medical & dental services company, as well as on the boards of two private companies, Skybound Service Partners & Accident Care Alliance. She previously held board roles at Vitamin Shoppe, with earlier career experience at Goldman Sachs, Miller Canfield Paddock & Stone, and Whirlpool Corporation. Deborah holds degrees from Harvard University and University of Notre Dame, is a member of the Michigan Bar Association, and was recognized as one of 2019’s Most Influential Corporate Directors by WomenInc. Magazine.

Kevin Koons serves as Chief Operating Officer, with accountability for all revenue channels — retail, lunch, B2B catering and gifting — across a system of 520+ traditional and seasonal locations, both corporate and franchised. He brings more than 20 years leading multi-unit franchise and company-owned systems at scale, with a focus on making the HoneyBaked franchise a more attractive development investment for prospective owners, work that runs through every function of the organization.

Kevin joined HoneyBaked in 2024 from Papa Johns, where as Senior Vice President of North American Operations he led "Back to Better," a system-wide operating reset that took the brand to the number one ACSI guest satisfaction ranking. Previously, at Wingstop, he doubled the international footprint and opened five new markets as Vice President of International, then piloted and carried third-party delivery to full U.S. scale as Senior Vice President of U.S. Operations.

Kevin spent nearly a decade at Domino's, entering through human resources before joining a program that moved him through the restaurants — working shifts behind the counter, time on the line that still grounds how he leads. He advanced through several markets before relocating abroad to lead the Middle East and Africa business from Johannesburg and Dubai, converting two competitor restaurant chains to the brand and earning the company-wide "Reppy" Award.

Kevin holds a B.A. in Human Resource Management from Michigan State University, studied International Business at Macquarie University, and later served an appointed term on the board of MSU's Hospitality Business School.

William Reno serves as Vice President of Franchise Operations and Development, bringing a deep well of franchising experience and a history of driving meaningful growth. William plays a key role in strengthening franchisee relationships, guiding successful new store openings, and partnering with operators on remodel initiatives that support the modernization of the brand and elevate the customer experience. His focus and teams reflects a commitment to building strong, scalable franchise systems that position HoneyBaked for long‑term success across both retail and B2B channels.

William’s background spans some of the most recognized names in franchising. At Subway, he led development efforts across a wide range of regulatory and cultural environments, supporting franchisees in markets around the world. His career began at Burger King, where he worked his way from team member to franchisee, ultimately operating 17 restaurants throughout Kentucky. That hands‑on ownership experience gives him a grounded understanding of the realities franchisees face investing capital, managing risk, and making decisions that shape the future of their businesses.

He later served as President of Global Franchising at BNI, collaborating with franchise owners across EMEA, LATAM, and APAC. His growth‑focused approach, strong sales background, and B2B expertise continue to inform his work at HoneyBaked as the brand expands its footprint of both traditional and seasonal locations.

William is passionate about building trust and fostering strong relationships with franchisees. His ongoing engagement with the Franchise Advisory Council reflects his belief in transparency, partnership, and ensuring that franchise owners feel supported and confident in the direction of the brand. His dedication to honoring that trust is central to his leadership and to HoneyBaked’s continued growth.