CEO of Columbus-based pizza chain retires, new leader announced

GAHANNA, Ohio (WCMH) -- A Columbus-based pizza company will have a leadership shake-up.

Donatos Pizza announced that CEO Tom Krouse will retire on his 65th birthday on Oct. 10. Krouse served as the CEO for the pizza chain headquartered in Gahanna for 24 years. After Krouse's retirement, president Kevin King will step in as the company's new CEO while continuing his role as president.

"Family has been the heart and soul of our business since 1963, and Tom has embodied this throughout his time at Donatos," wrote executive chairwoman and founding family member Jane Grote. "He has not only been a remarkable leader and musician but also a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Tom’s impact will continue to resonate, shaping the foundation of our company for generations to come."

In Donatos' announcement, the company noted that under Krouse's leadership, Donatos increased family franchise partners from 10 to 45 and doubled the size of the company.

Donatos was founded in 1963 by Jim Grote in Columbus. Currently, there are 178 traditional restaurants operated across the country. The first franchise location for Donatos opened in Zanesville, Ohio in 1991 after the first Donatos was opened in south Columbus by Grote in 1963 while he was a student at Ohio State.