David Mesa One of New Orleans’ top private companies has a new leader as Peter J. Boylan III has retired from President and CEO at Ballard Brands, the parent company of PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans and WOW American Eats. Boylan will be succeeded by Executive VP and Chief Development Officer David Mesa, who will serve as the hospitality and food service company’s President of the Franchise Division, overseeing PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans and WOW American Eats. Boylan will continue to provide counsel to Ballard Brands as an advisor. Boylan spent nearly two decades with Ballard Brands, including nine years as President/CEO. Under Boylan’s leadership, Ballard Brands expanded into 26 states and international markets, saw double-digit unit and revenue growth, and entered nontraditional channels like airports, military bases and healthcare facilities. “I am so grateful for the opportunity Paul, Steven and Scott Ballard provided me to work for and with them to grow their companies and brands,” said Boylan. “We accomplished much, and I look forward to continuing to hear about all their future accomplishments and growth. It was truly a team effort, and I know the team will continue to perform well under the leadership of David Mesa.” Mesa, a Louisiana native and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, has been with Ballard Brands for over eight years. “I’m honored to take on this role and continue building on the strong foundation that Peter helped establish,” said Mesa. “Ballard Brands has an exciting future ahead, and I look forward to working with our incredible team and franchise partners to expand our reach, strengthen our brands and create new opportunities for success.” Before joining Ballard Brands, Mesa served as president of franchise operations for Planet Beach Franchising Corporation, helping the company expand from 60 to more than 350 locations. He also held a leadership role in business operations at Allegis Group, the largest privately held staffing company in the U.S. Mesa earned the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation from the International Franchise Association in 2005. “David is the right leader to continue driving growth within the franchise division,” said Boylan. “His deep understanding of franchising, strategic mindset and dedication to our brands make him the ideal choice to guide the team into the future.” Ballard Brands is a privately held hospitality and food service company formed by brothers Paul, Steven, and Scott Ballard. After achieving success as franchisees for PJ’s Coffee, the brothers reunited in their home state to expand their footprint and open the first WOW Cafe (now WOW American Eats) in 2001. Ballard Brands acquired PJ’s Coffee in 2008. ...read more read less