LEBANON, TENN. — Julie Felss Masino will take over as chief executive officer of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., effective Aug. 7. Ms. Masino will succeed Sandra B. Cochran.

“Today’s announcement represents the culmination of a multi-year CEO succession-planning process by our board of directors and Sandy, and we are thrilled to welcome Julie to the head of the Cracker Barrel table,” said William McCarten, chairman of the board for Cracker Barrel. “We believe Julie’s track record as an innovator and a leader, together with her strategic thinking and passion for growth, will ensure that Cracker Barrel remains a place where people feel welcomed and cared for like family as we extend our hospitality to an even broader array of guests.” 

Prior to becoming Cracker Barrel’s CEO, Ms. Masino was most recently president of international operations at Taco Bell. She also held several leadership roles at Starbucks Coffee Co. and was chief marketing officer of Starbucks’ China business as well as vice president, strategy Americas and EMEA; vice president, global Beverage; and vice president, global merchandise and packaged food. 

“Cracker Barrel is one of the most iconic brands in the history of American casual and family dining, and I appreciate all that Sandy and the board have done to set the company, our team, and me up for success,” Ms. Masino said.