In this expanded role, Petralia will lead the brand's flagship training and media resource teams while continuing to oversee culinary strategy. Company leadership highlighted his ability to balance menu innovation with the practical realities of franchisee operations. According to President and CEO Chris Dull, Petralia’s background is specifically suited to providing restaurant teams with the resources necessary for scaling profitable menu solutions.

Petralia brings 25 years of industry experience to the executive team. Before his tenure at the Wichita-based chain, he served as director of culinary innovation for a fast-casual Italian concept with more than 200 units. A certified executive chef with an MBA from Hult International Business School, he initially joined Freddy’s in 2022 as Director of Menu Strategy & Innovation. His promotion reflects a broader corporate focus on refining the brand's signature hospitality and food standards as it continues its expansion across the United States and Canada.