Jimmy John Liautaud

Jimmy John Liautaud, the mastermind behind his Gourmet Sandwiches, is renowned for his business acumen and his significant philanthropic contributions. Along with his wife Leslie and their children, he established the Liautaud Family Foundation in 2017, marking a commitment to various charitable causes. The Foundation has generously supported numerous organizations, including the Mayo Clinic, Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, the American Heart Association, and more, demonstrating a broad scope in its charitable endeavors.

 

A cause dear to his family is the Horatio Alger Association, known for providing scholarships to high school students overcoming significant challenges. This reflects their commitment to empowering youth and supporting education.

 

In the business realm, 2014 was a pivotal year for Jimmy John. At a time when restaurant IPOs were trending, he considered taking his public. Despite his business's success, which had grown significantly since partnering with investor Weston Presidio in 2007, he valued his privacy and autonomy over the scrutiny and demands of being a public company. This preference for independence was evident in his management style, characterized by a hands-on approach and attention to detail.

 

Amidst rumors of him exploring his options, he connected with Roark Capital, led by Neil Aronson. Roark, with its extensive experience in the food and beverage sector and portfolio that includes brands like Arby's and Cinnabon, is an ideal partner. His comfort with the Roark team, cultivated over two years, led to his decision in 2016 to sell the majority of his company shares to them. He retained a 35% stake and the role of Chairman, ensuring his continued significant influence in the company.

 

With James North stepping in as CEO and President, Jimmy John's founder in 2019 further consolidated his interests by integrating his remaining shares with Inspire Brands. This strategic move allowed him to refocus on his family's Foundation and their investment company, dedicating more time to philanthropic efforts and managing his investments.