Quaker Steak &Lube hires outside CEO

SHARON, Pa. — A Los Angeles executive from Sizzler USA will become chief executive of Quaker Steak & Lube.

Ken Cole starts Feb. 25 and is the first outside CEO hired by the Sharon-based restaurant chain.

George “Jig” Warren, who now is CEO, said the hiring allows him and co-founder Gary Meszaros to slow down.

Mostly, however, the decision is about the growth of the chain, Warren said. Quaker Steak is continuing to expand and will be stronger under Cole because of his experience in working with franchisees and operating a large chain, Warren said.

Warren, 63, and Meszaros, 61, will become executive vice presidents and vice chairmen of the board of directors. Meszaros is now chief operating officer.

For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Vindicator or www.vindy.com.