ASX listed franchisor Collins Foods Limited (ASX: CKF) has announced a management shakeup, transitioning QSR veteran Newman Manion to the role of executive director.

Since joining YUM! Brands in 1982, Manion has held a multitude of roles under the KFC banner, including general manager of KFC New Zealand, general manager of KFC operations in Australia and board member for KFC Japan.

This latest appointment sees the franchise veteran take charge of the Collins Foods growth trajectory in a period when its KFC entities are experiencing great interest.

In November, Collins Foods revealed plans to bolster its KFC portfolio, following a massive rise in underlying net profit.

Graham Maxwell, chief executive said an additional revenue boost was behind the Collins Foods’ push to open 45 new KFCs across Australia over the next five years.

“Our KFC Australia business has continued to deliver strong results. Same-store sales growth improved across all states, particularly Western Australia,” Maxwell said at the time.

“Our ongoing focus is on maintaining earnings margin while driving incremental sales through operational improvements, digital and delivery initiatives, and consistency of customer experience.”

While Manion’s experience at the KFC level will be invaluable for Collins Foods moving forward, the group’s other operating businesses are also expecting growth.

In addition to being one of the countries largest KFC franchisees, Collins Foods is also steering the Taco Bell expansion Down Under.

After a successful trial in Queensland, the group has now gone to work in rebranding a number of its underperforming Sizzler outlets to Taco Bells.

Just last month, the global franchisor unveiled plans to ramp up Australian expansion, with the help of franchisees, Collins Foods and Restaurant Brands.