US-based fast-casual restaurant chain Sweetgreen has announced that co-founder Nathaniel Ru will retire from his position as chief brand officer on 1 January 2026, after two decades at the company.

Ru will remain a member of the board of directors.

He said: “It’s hard to put into words the emotions I feel looking back on how far we’ve come since those early days in Georgetown. What started as a simple yet powerful idea-to create a place where healthy, sustainable food was accessible to all-has grown into something far beyond what I ever imagined.”

Zipporah Allen, who became Sweetgreen's chief commercial officer in September, has taken on Ru’s responsibilities.

Allen previously worked at fitness platform Strava, where she was chief business officer and chief marketing officer.

He has also worked in marketing at Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and McDonald’s.

Sweetgreen CEO and co-founder Jonathan Neman said: “Since writing our first business plan in 2006 while in college, to now over 280 locations around the country, Nate has been there every step, shaping Sweetgreen into the national brand it is today. I have immense gratitude for Nate’s tireless work, support, and friendship.”

Ru’s remit has included overseeing cultural and food partnerships, national campaigns, locally targeted marketing, the Sweetgreen in Schools education programmes, and the Sweetlife music and food festival.

Ru said: “We've partnered with hundreds of farmers across the US to source some of the most delicious ingredients. We’ve collaborated with the world's best chefs, athletes, and musicians.

“We’ve helped underserved communities and classrooms gain access to healthy food. We’ve had the opportunity to serve over 300 million healthy meals across 280 restaurants in over 150 cities.”

In May, Jason Cochran assumed the role of Sweetgreen's chief operating officer, with responsibilities involving field operations, operations services and innovation.