Founder Aaron Noveshen Transitions to Chairman as Brand Enters Next Phase of Growth
SAN FRANCISCO, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Starbird, the nation’s trailblazer in super-premium fast food, announced today the appointment of Maria Rivera as Chief Executive Officer and to its Board of Directors. Rivera, an accomplished industry leader known for scaling some of the sector’s most dynamic brands, assumes leadership of the company. Founder Aaron Noveshen will transition fully to his role as Chairman of the Board, remaining an active partner in supporting Starbird’s strategic direction.
This move marks a defining moment for Starbird, signaling its bold next chapter as it accelerates national expansion, franchise growth, and strong brand awareness- fueled by the vision of its founder, the investment of longtime partner Dollarhyde Investment Group, and the strategic backing of KarpReilly, a leading consumer-focused investment firm.
“Maria is a transformative leader with a remarkable track record of building brands with heart, assembling exceptional teams, and driving disciplined growth,” said Aaron Noveshen, Founder and Chairman of Starbird. “I’m thrilled to welcome her to the helm and energized by the opportunity to partner with her as we lead Starbird into its next chapter—unlocking new levels of growth, reach, and impact together with our team.”
Rivera brings more than two decades of executive experience with globally recognized brands, including Krispy Kreme, Logan’s Roadhouse, Darden Restaurants, Caesar’s Entertainment and The Walt Disney Company. Most recently, she served as CEO of Smalls Sliders, spearheading its franchise-driven growth and brand evolution. Known for leading emerging brands into category leadership, Rivera’s expertise uniquely positions her to guide Starbird through its high-growth trajectory.
“Starbird represents everything I believe the future of fast food can be- a brand rooted in culinary innovation, operational excellence, and a customer experience powered by technology, hospitality and heart,” said Maria Rivera, CEO of Starbird. “I’m stepping into Starbird with deep respect for the brand Aaron and this team have built, and a clear vision for where we’re headed. I’m honored to lead Starbird into its next era—scaling with intention, partnering with best-in-class operators, and delivering craveable food with a conscience to communities nationwide.”
Following a record-setting year- highlighted by double-digit same-store sales growth, a $4.3M median unit sales volume, and more than 30 franchised locations in development– Starbird is leaning into its growth strategy by investing in leadership, systems, and franchise expansion. The brand continues to attract top-tier talent, including recent hires across operations, finance, development, and culinary innovation. Its leadership team, now under Rivera’s direction, remains focused on strengthening Starbird’s distinctive market position at the intersection of quality, innovation, and guest experience.
To learn more about the brand and/or franchising with Starbird, please visit starbirdchicken.com and starbirdfranchising.com, email [email protected] or contact 866-327-4779.
About Starbird
Starbird is fundamentally changing the future of fast food by delivering feel-good crispy chicken and a positive, tech-driven customer experience. Founded in 2016 by restaurant innovators at The Culinary Edge (TCE), the restaurant consultancy recognized that chicken consumption was on the rise and set out to reimagine fast food to meet the needs of a new America and their tastebuds. Built upon pillars of culinary innovation, a frictionless service model, and positive operational excellence, Starbird has successfully established a forward-thinking concept, leading the super-premium fast-food marketplace and national brand recognition within the $34 Billion U.S. chicken marketplace. Starbird was named the winner of Nation’s Restaurant News’ Chicken Showdown in 2023 and earned the 7th spot on Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers for the ninth consecutive year in 2025. The brand also appeared in Restaurant Business Technomic’s Future 50 rankings and on Food & Wine’s list of “Top 10 Airports for Food and Drink,” solidifying its position as an industry leader.
About Aaron Noveshen
Aaron Noveshen is a celebrated innovator in the restaurant industry, recognized for his work as Founder of The Culinary Edge and as Founder of Starbird. With a background in culinary consulting, product development, and brand creation, Aaron launched Starbird in 2016 to redefine fast food with a focus on flavor, quality, and a frictionless guest experience. As Chairman, Aaron remains a key architect of the brand’s vision and future.
About Dollarhyde Investment Group
Greg Dollarhyde is a respected investor and restaurant industry leader known for his role in scaling fast-casual and emerging brands. A longtime supporter of Starbird, Dollarhyde brings strategic insight and deep industry experience to his role as a board member and lead investor.
About KarpReilly
KarpReilly, a private investment firm specializing in growing consumer brands, is a key financial partner to Starbird. Known for backing high-potential restaurant and retail concepts, KarpReilly supports Starbird’s mission of redefining premium fast food through thoughtful investment and strategic guidance.
Media Contact:
Hayden Koone, Fish919
[email protected]
954-893-9150
SOURCE Starbird Chicken
