Ben Cohen

About Ben Cohen

Dynamic and results-driven Chief Operating Officer with 20+ years leading cross-regional, multi-unit and franchise operations across retail, restaurants, and e-commerce. I specialize in bridging strategy and execution, optimizing operations, and building high-performing teams that deliver measurable growth and operational excellence.Throughout my career, I have overseen operations for hundreds of locations, privy to P & Ls totaling hundreds of millions in annual revenue, and led initiatives that improve efficiency, drive revenue, and mitigate risk. I thrive at the intersection of strategy, finance, operations, and people, helping organizations scale sustainably while navigating complex challenges.Highlights of my impact include:* Driving top-ranked franchise remodel programs and expansion initiatives across multi-state territories.* Negotiating real estate, vendor, and operational agreements that generate millions in cost savings.* Guiding Franchise Partners through complex funding, compliance, and crisis management scenarios.* Building and mentoring high-performing teams to achieve operational excellence across multiple functions.* Passionate about operational strategy, franchise development, and leveraging cross-functional expertise to transform challenges into growth opportunities.* Always eager to explore innovative ways to optimize performance and create lasting business impact.

Experience

1. Chief Operating Officer

   Subway Restaurants Ohcal Mid-Atlantic, Llc

   Jul 2016 — Present · San Diego, CA, US

   Executive Oversight & Strategic Leadership | 2026 - Present• Primary operating role with portfolio-level responsibility, complemented by limited external advisory work.• Elevated from day-to-day operations to portfolio-level COO oversight and strategic guidance across priority and distressed restaurant operations.• Advise CEO and President on operational execution, HR matters, financial oversight, and enterprise risk management.• Lead targeted interventions in leasing, collections, and underperforming operations to preserve cash flow and prevent closures.Operating Leadership | 2016 – 2025• Oversaw operations for ~740 restaurants generating ~$350M in annual revenue across southern Maryland, Washington D.C, and Virginia.• Spearheaded restaurant remodel completions of 600+ locations to achieve #1 North America ranking within the chain.• Directed rent reductions and landlord concessions, saving owners $50M+.• Guided Franchise Partners to secure $60M+ in Paycheck Protection Program Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), and Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) programs during the pandemic, minimizing restaurant closures to <2%.• Cultivated and onboarded new Franchise Partners by interviewing 200+ applicants and facilitating 400+ existing restaurant transfers.• Headed ad hoc corporate projects, which included mitigating legal risk.

Education

• California State University, Northridge

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Political Science