New CEO For Sbarro After Surviving Bankruptcy

The Board of Directors of Melville-based Sbarro, Inc. announced that the company has hired a new leadership, after successfully emerging from bankruptcy last year.

James Greco, 54, has been named president and chief executive officer. In addition, J. David Karam, 53, formerly President of Wendy’s International, has agreed to serve as Sbarro’s new Chairman.

Greco joins Sbarro from Bruegger's Enterprises, where he also served as CEO and led the bagel-bakery chain through strong performances and growth. Nicky McGrane, who has been serving as Sbarro's interim president and CEO, will be leaving the company to pursue other opportunities.

"We're extremely pleased to have attracted a top-tier talent like Jim to Sbarro," Karam said on behalf of the board. "Jim has outstanding credentials and will provide strong leadership as the company continues to grow. At the same time, we want to recognize the contributions that Nicky made as interim CEO. His stewardship during a difficult time for Sbarro was immensely valuable."

Nicky McGrane, who has been serving as Sbarro’s interim President and CEO led Sbarro through a successful last year, with Sbarro emerging with significantly less debt and substantial liquidity to invest in future growth. McGrane will be leaving the Company to pursue other opportunities, the company stated in a release.

"I am looking forward to the opportunity to lead and grow Sbarro," Greco said. "As the company's recent performance demonstrates, this is an iconic brand with a strong foundation upon which we can build."