Founderology Growth Summit
Photo: Dave’s Hot Chicken
January 12, 2026
Dave’s Hot Chicken announced Monday the appointment of Joshua Liggins as vice president of franchise development, a move intended to accelerate the brand’s global expansion through 2026.
Liggins joins the hot chicken chain from Inspire Brands, where he served as director of franchising for Dunkin’, Baskin-Robbins and Sonic. In his new role, Liggins will oversee a strategic, data-driven growth plan focusing on non-traditional locations and international markets.
“Dave’s is a home run of a brand,” Liggins said in a company press release. “When you hear about the unit economics, the sales-to-investment ratio, and see the level of reinvestment from existing franchisees, it gets your attention.”
The appointment comes as the company enters a new phase of leadership. Jim Bitticks, recently named CEO, said Liggins will be instrumental in maintaining the brand’s momentum across diverse development channels.
“With his deep franchising experience and disciplined approach to development, Joshua will play a critical role as we expand across traditional, non-traditional and international channels,” Bitticks said.
While most domestic territories are currently committed, Liggins will focus on ensuring existing franchisees meet development milestones and identifying high-potential real estate in in-demand locations. The company is also prioritizing international growth, following a recent European partnership with Azzurri Group.
Founded in 2017 as a parking lot pop-up by Arman Oganesyan, Dave Kopushyan and Tommy and Gary Rubenyan, Dave’s Hot Chicken has grown into a global franchise with more than 1,020 locations sold. The brand, which specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken with spice levels ranging from “No Spice” to “Reaper,” has attracted high-profile investors including Drake, Usher, Samuel L. Jackson and Michael Strahan.
The company expects to open more than 70 locations this year.
About Dave’s Hot Chicken Based in Los Angeles, Dave’s Hot Chicken specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken tenders and sliders. Since its 2017 founding, the brand has expanded across the U.S., Canada, the Middle East, and Europe.
Wanna hear more?
Join Bitticks as he interviews founders Arman Oganesyan, Dave Kopushyan and Tommy and Gary Rubenyan at the Founderology Growth Summit, Feb. 2-4 in Austin. Register here.
