Fondue chain names new CEO, adds others to executive team

The Melting Pot, a Tampa-based fondue experience restaurant celebrating 50 years in business in 2025, has named John “JC” Crawford CEO. 

Crawford, who has been executive vice president of operations for the company for the past five years, replaces longtime CEO and founder Bob Johnston, who will remain chairman of the board. Johnston will also remain an owner and, according to a statement, “continue to support the brand’s long-term growth and strategic direction.

Crawford joined Melting Pot in March 2020. Before that he worked for brands including Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Bennigan’s, heading up franchising and operations at both companies. He was also an assistant GM at McDonald's for five years early in his career, according to his LinkedIn profile. 

“This is a brand that has been a part of people’s lives for five decades, and I’m honored to help lead it into its next chapter,” Crawford says in a statement. “We have a talented leadership team, incredible franchise partners and a guest experience that’s unlike anything else in the industry. As we look ahead, we’re focused on operational excellence, innovative growth strategies and ensuring every guest enjoys the perfect night out.”

The company also announced several internal promotions and title changes among the executive team, including: 

• Randy Barnett was promoted from vice president of technology to chief technology officer.
• Mike Mobley was promoted from vice president of people to chief talent officer.
• Matt Zurcher was promoted from director to vice president of franchise and restaurant operations and added to the leadership team.
• Dan Stone’s title changed from chief operating and development officer to chief business officer.
• Ana Mamqvist’s title changed from chief marketing officer to chief brand officer.
• Scott Pierce remains CFO and part of the leadership team.

“These changes reflect the strength and depth of our internal talent,” Crawford says in the statement. “We’re building a best in class leadership structure that will support franchisees, team members and guests for decades to come.”

An affiliate of restaurant management company The Melting Pot Inc., the fondue specialty chain debuted in Maitland in 1975. Mark, Mike and Bob Johnston were the first franchise owners and purchased the rights to the company in 1985. It now has 92 restaurants in 31 U.S. states and Canada. In addition to a variety of fondue cooking styles and entrées, Melting Pot’s menu also features cheese fondues, salads, fine wines, spirits and chocolate fondue desserts. 

The company, according to the statement, recently signed franchise agreements to open in North Dallas with new franchisees, and in Syracuse, New York, with an existing franchisee group. The company seeks to grow more, it says, in key markets such as Texas, Florida, Michigan, California and Tennessee.