After nearly 25 years, long-standing Columbus pizza chain CEO stepping down

Following a 24 year run, Donatos Pizza CEO Tom Krouse has announced his retirement, which will go into effect this October.

A Bexley native who graduated from Upper Arlington High School, Krouse joined Donatos in 2000 after spending 18 years at Wendy’s.

In his nearly quarter century tenure, Krouse has helped the company double in size, and has helped the local brand expand from 10 franchise partners to 45. Last year, Donatos also received a CREATORS Award from Nation’s Restaurant News.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

 “I feel like the luckiest guy alive to have had the opportunity to lead a company with amazing people and an awesome mission,” Krouse said in a press release. “I’m truly honored. I am so happy for Kevin and Donatos because he is the perfect choice to take this company into the future.”

Replacing Krouse is Miami University Graduate Kevin King, who has served as Donatos Pizza President since 2022.

Want to read more? Check out our print publications, (614) Magazine and Stock & Barrel. Learn where you can find free copies of our newest issues here!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY