Sprinkles Bakeries and Picnik Restaurants have announced the promotion of Justin Murakami to chief operating officer. Since joining Sprinkles in 2017, Murakami has become an integral part of the company's evolution, developing and implementing foundational systems and processes that laid the groundwork in expanding the brand’s physical footprint with both company-owned and franchised locations, domestically and internationally.

Notably, under his stewardship, Murakami took the brand’s iconic cupcake ATMs beyond their brick and mortar locales and launched the non-traditional Cupcake ATM business. With over 50 ATMs and counting, Sprinkles ATMs can be found in airports, malls and lifestyle centers across the country. He was also instrumental in the successful launch of Sprinkles’ National Shipping Program, creating another channel for significant growth.

"Justin’s strategic foresight and operational expertise have been instrumental in our company's success, especially in expanding Sprinkles’ global footprint and Picnik’s domestic expansion," says Dan Mesches, president and chief executive officer of Sprinkles Bakeries and Picnik Restaurants. "We're confident that under Justin's leadership, we'll continue to exceed expectations, scale efficiently and solidify our position as industry leaders."

As chief operating officer, Murakami will lead operations, training, supply chain, culinary, franchise operations and new bakery and restaurant openings. His responsibilities include partnering with cross-functional departments, identifying opportunities and gaps, formulating and implementing robust processes and systems to ensure scalability and ease for the team.

"Assuming the role of chief operating officer at Sprinkles and Picnik is a tremendous honor," Murakami says. "I am devoted to leveraging our team's strengths, harnessing operational excellence, and charting a growth trajectory that maintains our commitment to exceptional guest experiences. I am excited about the opportunity to not only drive innovation and sustainable expansion for our business, but to continue nurturing and developing the people I work with every day.”