HTeaO Appoints Chris Phillips as Chief Financial Officer

The iced tea franchise brand names industry veteran to lead finance, accounting, and strategic planning as it continues rapid expansion.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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HTeaO, the nation's leading iced tea franchise, has appointed Chris Phillips as its new Chief Financial Officer. In this role, Phillips will oversee the company's finance, accounting, information technology, and strategic planning functions as HTeaO continues its rapid expansion across the U.S.

Why it matters

HTeaO is a fast-growing iced tea franchise that has built significant momentum in recent years. The appointment of an experienced CFO like Chris Phillips signals the brand's commitment to strengthening its financial foundation and supporting smart, sustainable growth as it scales nationally.

The details

Phillips brings over two decades of experience leading finance and strategy for highly franchised, multi-brand restaurant organizations. His background includes senior leadership roles at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and Darden Restaurants, where he was part of executive teams supporting major growth initiatives and acquisitions. As CFO of HTeaO, Phillips will focus on strengthening the brand's financial and technology infrastructure, driving insights to support franchisee profitability, and partnering cross-functionally to execute HTeaO's long-term growth strategy.

  • HTeaO announced Phillips' appointment on February 9, 2026.

The players

Chris Phillips

The new Chief Financial Officer of HTeaO, bringing over two decades of experience leading finance and strategy for highly franchised, multi-brand restaurant organizations.

HTeaO

The nation's leading iced tea franchise, which has appointed Chris Phillips as its new Chief Financial Officer to support the company's rapid expansion across the U.S.

Justin Howe

The co-founder and CEO of HTeaO, who stated that Phillips' leadership will be instrumental as the brand continues investing in its franchisees, people, and future growth.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited to join HTeaO at such a pivotal time. The brand has built incredible momentum, a deeply engaged franchise system, and a loyal and growing customer base. What stood out to me immediately was the opportunity ahead to help strengthen the financial foundation of the business while partnering closely with franchisees and leadership to support smart, sustainable growth. This is a brand with a long runway, and I'm energized by what we can build together.”

— Chris Phillips, Chief Financial Officer

“Chris brings the rare combination of strategic vision and hands-on operational experience. He understands what it takes to grow a franchise brand the right way, with discipline, transparency, and a strong partnership mindset. His leadership will be instrumental as we continue investing in our franchisees, our people, and the future of HTeaO.”

— Justin Howe, Co-founder and CEO

The takeaway

The appointment of an experienced CFO like Chris Phillips signals HTeaO's commitment to strengthening its financial foundation and supporting smart, sustainable growth as the iced tea franchise continues its rapid national expansion.