Thompson Hospitality, one of the largest food service and hospitality industry companies in the U.S., announced the appointment of Joe Lawler as its new chief financial officer (CFO).
Lawler succeeds Ali Azima, who has served as CFO since 2000 and has been a cornerstone of the company’s success since its founding in 1992. Ali will transition to the role of senior vice president of special programs before his planned retirement in January 2026.
Since joining Thompson Hospitality in 2020 as senior vice president of strategy and finance, Lawler has played a pivotal role in driving corporate development, leading multiple acquisitions, and supporting strategic initiatives.
Over the past four years, Thompson’s restaurant portfolio has more than tripled in size, with his contributions shaping the company’s impressive growth trajectory.
“Joe has fully embraced Thompson Hospitality’s culture, gained an in-depth understanding of our business, and fostered strong relationships with clients and team members,” said Warren Thompson, president and chairman of Thompson Hospitality.
Lawler earned a degree in business from James Madison University and an MBA from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. He has worked with Deloitte Financial Advisory Services in the District and as a partner at PCA Partners, a boutique consulting firm specializing in complex financial and strategic challenges.
“His extensive financial expertise and exceptional leadership make him the perfect choice to lead us into our next phase of growth,” Thompson continued. “I am confident that, with Joe at the helm, we will continue to expand our reach and enhance the guest experience.”