PRESIDENT & CEO

Starboard Investments began in the franchise industry - specifically fast casual food in the form of delicious sandwiches from Jimmy John’s. After a career in banking and private equity, Brandon’s directional compass steered him to a more people-focused venture. Finding security and structure in franchising, Brandon soon built a group of Jimmy John’s stores throughout the Southeast, a respected and popular brand that consumers loved.

While Jimmy John’s surely laid the groundwork for his career, its success came from more than just a great product and solid customer service. Defining values that came to be embraced by his hundreds of employees, he found this experience would set the course for the rest of his career - and the next step for Starboard Investments.

Starboard always existed on paper - its brand value didn’t truly manifest until the year 2020 - one that caught the whole world by surprise. With challenges in business and the food industry stacking up rapidly, Starboard understood its role in the community was more than just delivering food to the masses. Leadership, employee care, and general kindness were necessary to build a culture of respect within the businesses and community alike. As a result, the idea was born that Starboard could exist beyond this initial Jimmy John’s investment and play a larger role in the community. Using these basic principles of employee-focused, community-based business paired with strong operations experience, Brandon and the Starboard brand seek the next meaningful venture - one that goes beyond capital investment into an arena that values opportunity through human investment.

PARTNER/DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS - JIMMY JOHNS

Jessee Spinks is the Director of Operations for Starboard Investments, where she provides the direction and guidance for operational activities within Starboard Investments’ portfolio.

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

Richie was born and raised in Birmingham, AL, attending Samford University where he earned an undergraduate degree in accounting as well as a master’s degree in accounting. After graduation, he went to work for Alabama’s largest CPA firm, Warren Averett, where he spent several years auditing financial statements of private companies and became a manager in the consulting division working on merger and acquisitions due diligence. After his time in public accounting, he moved into a corporate finance role and went to work for Focus Brands, the owner of seven restaurant brands including Cinnabon, Jamba, and McAlister’s Deli. He served on the financial planning and analysis team and helped the company with strategic budgeting and analysis for multiple brands internationally and domestically as well as the company’s licensing team. In 2021, Richie joined the Starboard Investments team as Director of Finance. Richie loves a good cup of coffee, to read, run, and spend time with his wife and 3 children, Haddie (6), Evie (4), and Bailey (2).

OFFICE MANAGER

Kathleen Briones is the Office Manager for Starboard Investments. Born in Miami, FL, Kathleen first became familiar with the Jimmy John’s franchise brand when she began working at one of their locations in Jacksonville,FL. When presented with an opportunity to expand her knowledge in the accounting and payroll side of the franchise business, she took the leap and has not looked back. In July of 2013, Kathleen officially joined Brandon Stewart and his team in Birmingham, AL, where she now oversees the office management operations of the business. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking at home and exploring Birmingham’s growing restaurant scene.

Priscila joined Starboard Investments in 2022 as an Operations Analyst. She is in charge of collecting and analyzing data to review the performance of our operation and when needed, she makes recommendations for the leadership team to review. She is also actively involved in implementing new processes and procedures, such as our new recruitment initiatives and CSAT program. She brings 15 years of experience in the Logistics and insurance industries, where she worked with teams in the United States, Europe, and Asia.

When she is not working, Priscila is either planning a hiking trip, volunteering or spending time with her family and friends.

Savanna Crawford is the Engagement Manager for Starboard Investments. She was born and raised in Alabama and relocated to Georgia in 2014, where she graduated from Kennesaw State University. In 2021, she joined the Starboard Investment team in Birmingham, AL, and brings her passion for organization, community, and years of experience. Savanna helps with administrative tasks, plans events, and works alongside the team to help ensure daily operations are carried through.

Savanna loves to read, spend time with her husband and dog, and travel in her