---
title: "Denny’s Names Christopher Bode as New CEO, Launches Project Grand Slam from Spartanburg Headquarters"
url: https://www.herespartanburg.com/dennys-new-ceo-bode-spartanburg/
date: 2026-04-14T19:12:25-04:00
modified: 2026-04-22T15:52:20-04:00
author: "Rhea L. Chang"
categories: ["Business"]
site: "HERESpartanburg"
attribution: "HERESpartanburg"
---

# Denny’s Names Christopher Bode as New CEO, Launches Project Grand Slam from Spartanburg Headquarters

*Source: [HERESpartanburg](https://www.herespartanburg.com/dennys-new-ceo-bode-spartanburg/) — April 14, 2026 by Rhea L. Chang*

Published April 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM | By B. Bree Kelley, Business Reporter

## Bode Elevated from COO, Launches 24-Month Transformation Plan

Spartanburg-headquartered Denny’s has named Christopher Bode as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, the company announced on April 13. Bode, who previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer, will lead the iconic family dining chain through a comprehensive transformation under a new initiative called Project Grand Slam.

The leadership change comes less than three months after Denny’s completed its transition from a publicly traded company to private ownership. In January 2026, TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Treville Capital Group, and Yadav Enterprises completed the $620 million all-cash acquisition. Denny’s common stock ceased trading on the Nasdaq on January 16.

### Project Grand Slam

Project Grand Slam is a 24-month strategic growth plan that Bode will spearhead as CEO. The initiative focuses on six core areas: culinary and flavor innovation, an improved daypart beverage program, catering and bulk solutions, restaurant remodeling under the America’s Diner 2.0 concept, retail brand expansion, and digital transformation.

Bode brings more than 30 years of restaurant industry leadership and is a former member of the United States Navy. During his time as Chief Operating Officer, Denny’s outperformed the family dining segment in 30 of 45 quarters tracked.

### Spartanburg Headquarters

Denny’s corporate headquarters is located at 203 East Main Street in downtown Spartanburg, where the company has been based for decades. The chain operates 1,459 restaurants worldwide, with 1,397 franchised or licensed locations and 62 company-operated restaurants. Operations span 11 countries including the United States, Canada, and locations throughout Asia, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Adil Yadav, Chief Officer and CEO of the ownership group, said Bode is a transformative leader who connects corporate strategy with ground-level execution. The new ownership structure gives Denny’s enhanced flexibility to invest in its brands, support franchise partners, and accelerate growth initiatives without the quarterly reporting pressure of public markets.

## What is Happening

**Q: Who is the new CEO of Denny’s?**

A: Christopher Bode has been named President and Chief Executive Officer. He previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer and has more than 30 years of restaurant industry experience.

**Q: What is Project Grand Slam?**

A: Project Grand Slam is a 24-month strategic plan focusing on culinary innovation, digital transformation, restaurant remodeling, catering expansion, retail brand growth, and an improved beverage program.

**Q: Is Denny’s still headquartered in Spartanburg?**

A: Yes. Denny’s corporate headquarters remains at 203 East Main Street in downtown Spartanburg, SC. The company was acquired by private investors in January 2026 for $620 million but has maintained its Spartanburg base.

**Q: How many Denny’s restaurants are there?**

A: As of 2024, Denny’s operates 1,459 restaurants worldwide across 11 countries. The majority are franchised or licensed locations.